Lot 190: AN INDO-PERSIAN LACQUERED DHAL SHIELD, 19TH CENTURY

An Indo-Persian shield, known as a dhal, of circular and convex form. Constructed from thick, moulded hide, the exterior face is finished with black lacquer. The decoration consists of a symmetrical arrangement of five primary medallions, including a central circular medallion surrounded by four teardrop-shaped lobes. These areas are decorated with fine, reticulated patterns in deep red with traces of gold-coloured detailing. Four circular metal bosses with flanged edges are mounted in a square formation around the centre. The reverse is finished in plain black hide and fitted with two replacement hand-straps covered in blue fabric, which are secured to metal rings passing through the body to the exterior bosses.

D: 35cm