Here we have a set of slate 19th, early 20th century cast brass shields by the Minangkabau People, for the Aceh Market in Sumatra, Indonesia. These can be considered tourist pieces from the late 19th/early 20th century. Peurise is Acehnese for shield and Teumaga refers to copper or brass in Acehnese. These shield or bucklers were cast by the matrilineal Minangkabau people of west Sumatra for export to the Aceh sultanate in northern Sumatra. The Acehnese used these bucklers for a form of cultural Sword dance, as well as personal defence in close quarters combat.

Historically these shields were reserved for elite fighters, including the Sultans personal guard, and symbolised status within Acehnese society.

Decorated with applied brass elements such as hemispherical knobs, often numbering five, six, seven or more, and engraved concentric patterns, they combine functionality with aesthetic and symbolic value. They were integral to the armament of Acehnese forces during the late 19th century, notably in the Aceh War (1873-1904) against Dutch colonial expansion. Warriors paired them with Rencong daggers and swords for agile, hand to hand engagement.

There were regional variations, with some martial applications and some ceremonial variants serving in rituals or as heirlooms, highlighting the shield enduring cultural significance in Acehnese heritage.

Typical diameters range from 24cm to 35cm, being compact for agile defence. Battle examples tend to be 24-30cm with ceremonial examples measuring up to 35mm. They generally weigh between 0.5 kg – 2kg.

The two smaller 6 stared examples match, both measuring 25cm x 25cm with a weight of 600g. The larger 8 stared example measures 38cm x 38cm with a weight of 1.2kg.

The rears have four lugs through which an arm strap can be threaded.

Similar Malay bucklers are illustrated in Singh (1985, p. 41).