African shields represent one of the many genres of artifacts that blur the line between utilitarian craft and fine art. The Beja people are a nomadic ancient Cushitic people closely kin to the ancient Egyptians, who have lived in the desert between the Nile river and the Red Sea since at least 25000 BC. Various Beja groups have intermarried with Arab or southern (dark) Cushites over the centuries. They are sometimes aloof, withdrawn, aggressive and warlike. The Beja have a uniquely huge crown of fuzzy hair, first recorded in Egyptian rock paintings (circa B.C. 2000). In ancient Egyptian times, the Beja were known as Ta-Seti and were renowned for their skill as archers in the Egyptian army and are known as fierce warriors even today. For Bedja men, a round leather shield was awarded to individuals upon reaching manhood as a “rite of passage” gift. The shield is a near perfect circle with small cutouts at the top and bottom, all of which is reinforced by a wooden form and handle.