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1969.29.7

Circular, convex hide shield decorated with four bosses. The shield is gilded with a now faded circular design. There is a red fabric bound grip on the reverse. [CW [OPS move] 19/8/2016]

1969.29.7

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Collection type
Object
Description
Circular, convex hide shield decorated with four bosses. The shield is gilded with a now faded circular design. There is a red fabric bound grip on the reverse. [CW [OPS move] 19/8/2016]
Person
Field collector Morland family
PRM source Abingdon Museum
Date / Period
Date made: Before 1850?, uncertain
Date collected
By 1850 ?
Acquisition information
Transferred: 1969
Materials and processes
Material Papier-Mâché Paper Plant, Material Lacquer Varnish, Material Gilt Metal, Material Brass Metal, Material Animal Hide Skin, Process Lacquered Varnished, Process Gilded
Dimensions
Diameter: max 391 mm, Height: max 56 mm
Object numbers
Accession number: 1969.29.7
Research and responses

Dhal were most commonly made of Indian Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornus) rawhide, which was dried and lacquered, but not tanned. Rhinoceros hide was valued for shield-making because it could take on a striking translucent quality, and was harder and more durable than buffalo leather. The Asian rhinoceros was much more widely available for hunting prior to 1600 AD. The skin of the freshwater porpoise was occasionally also used for making shields in India, as were steel, wood, and papier maché. Four brass bosses are typical of Indian shields, which both protect and conceal the fixings that support the two handles inside. These straps were held in the hand during fighting. They had a third leather strap, or silk scarf, tied between them when not in use, so that the shield could be slung over the back when riding. This style of convex circular shield was used throughout western and southern Asia – particularly Persia – from the early 7th century AD onwards – although the characteristic four-bossed shape is distinctive to the Indian subcontinent. Relevant Reading: Robinson, H.R. (1967) Oriental Armour. London: Herbert Jenkins. Egerton of Tatton, Lord (1968) Indian & Oriental Armour. London: Arms & Armour Press. Welch, S.C. (1985) India: Art & Culture, 1300-1900. New York: Metropolitan Museum of Art. Research Conducted for DCF Cutting Edge 2006/2007 [AM].

Search terms: Weapon, Shield

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