Collection Online
Shield
Medium
gold paint and lacquer on hide, copper alloy, iron, cotton, silk
Measurements
37.8 × 37.8 × 6.0 cm
Place/s of Execution
India
Inscription
branded inside shield: FF
branded inside shield: FF
Accession Number
638-D1A
Department
Asian Art
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Accessioned, 1878
This digital record has been made available on NGV Collection Online through the generous support of The Gordon Darling Foundation
Gallery location
Not on display
Physical description
Round shield with 6 raised metal bosses, made from shaped hide or leather (?), with a shallow dome shape and slightly raised outer edge. The shield is decorated with a painted design in gold paint or leaf consisting of concentric bands of floral and geometric motifs, around the centre and edge. The central bands are raised. The painted leather is completely covered in a thick layer of lacquer/shellac which has a reddish-amber colour. The interior is fitted with 6 metal loops through lugs inserted into the shield. Knotted lengths of fabric are threaded through the loops to form hand holds.