ISLAMIC, INDIAN ART & JEWELS

Lot 50:

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AN ENGRAVED PERSIAN HELMET (KHULA KHUD) WITH CENTRAL SPIKE AND CHAIN MAIL, QAJAR, 19TH CENTURY

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Start price: £550

Estimated price: £600 - £800

Buyer's premium:

Description

A finely engraved Persian steel helmet (khula khud), characteristically domed and fitted with a tall central spike rising from a baluster finial. The bowl is richly decorated with dense foliate scrollwork and shaped cartouches filled with calligraphy in elegant naskh script. A nasal guard extends from the apex, terminating in a quatrefoil finial, and is flanked by two plume-holders.


The lower rim is encircled by a band of engraved ornament and supports a substantial aventail of riveted chain mail, designed to protect the neck and sides of the face. The chain mail shows age-related wear and losses consistent with period manufacture and use.

A well-preserved example of Qajar military craftsmanship, notable for its intricate decoration and imposing form.

H: 52cm