An Unusual Hindu Shield
The Hindu shield presented here is outwardly familiar as an Indian dhal, yet marked by a blend of subtly unusual features, rich religious imagery, and a raised level of craftsmanship that sets it apart from the base examples. Its six-boss design, embossed copper-alloy surface and vivid depictions of Krishna mean this is more interesting a shield than most.
It measured around 40cm in diameter, retains its rear knuckle-pad and twin hand-straps, and is decorated with stylised palmettes, chevrons, tiny circles and crosses. The palmette motif, ancient in origin and adapted by many cultures, was embraced early by South Asian artists and architects, particularly in the ‘flame’ variant that we see here.
Six-bossed dhals are mentioned in the literature and several appear in major collections. One common theory regarding six-bossed shields is that they were favoured by cavalrymen, with the lower bosses helping to disrupt upward attacks from foot soldiers. This is difficult to confirm, though, particularly as many warriors alternated between fighting on horseback and on foot. Metal six-bossed shields are considerably rarer than their hide counterparts, though.
Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu and a supreme deity in his own right, is one of the most beloved divinities in India and can be seen here in different forms, along with depictions of Garuda in the east and Hanuman in the west. Religious motifs are rare, and likely added as auspicious symbols.
This shield is available for £575, plus postage.
Sadly, I only have room for two shields in this part of my collection so I am putting up four for sale, and will withdraw the final two from sale once the first two have sold.
Please use the Contact form to make an enquiry.
If you’d like to read about the history of this type of shield, I have a large article on my Patreon.