Antique 18th Century Mughal India Indo Persian Indian shield Dhal 

Rare, antique, 18th-century Mughal period, huge made of black lacquered hide, Indo-Persian, Indian shield (Dhal).

The shield has a circular convex form and an ornate brass medallion at the center. The medallion features an engraved, hand-sculpted, low-relief image of the Hindu deity Hanuman.

The monkey god faces towards the left side while wearing a Veshti and sash. He is decorated with two necklaces, armlets, bangles, earrings, and an elaborate crown. In his right hand, he carries Sanjeevani Mountain, and in his left hand, he holds a mace.

The medallion is surrounded by four solid brass pierced domed bosses in the form of rosettes. They are attached on the backside by four iron ring bolts to secure straps to hold the shield. The dial on the reverse side comes fitted with a rectangular cushion made of embroidered purple velvet.

The central medallion is flanked by two large ornate medallions, finely hand-chiseled in low relief. One depicts the Hindu goddess Durga riding a lion with many arms, each carrying a weapon to defeat demons.

The second medallion portrays a scene from the royal court of India. It depicts a ruler sitting on a throne, adorned in a crown and regal attire, surrounded by attendants holding fly whisks. Two noblemen are seated on chairs beside the ruler, dressed in elaborate costumes and turbans and holding sheathed swords. The lower part shows two courtiers seated on chairs, dressed in turbans and luxury dresses, and served by male and female servants.

Additionally, the shield is applied with two cast and hand-chiseled brass busts: one of a woman and the other of a mustached man.

Additionally, four domed copper bosses, overlaid with gold, are riveted onto the shield.

MEASUREMENTS: Diameter: 48.5 cm (19.09inches)

CONDITION: It shows age and use. The rim is slightly chipped, as is often the case with hide shields, but otherwise, it is in very good condition with natural color and patina.​

Item number: ES1194

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