DESCRIPTION

Antique 19th Century Indian Solid Silver large presentation plaque in the form of a Indo-Persian Dhal (shield), unique and exceptionally decorative, of domed circular form, repousse' decorated in very high relief, the central roundel depicting a man fightng a lion with a spear and a shield (dhal), surrounded by a band of acanthus leaves and a series of 16 oval cartouches depicting hunting scenes and fighting animals, also in high relief.

Shields of this type (Dhal) were usually made of hide, often painted or laquered, with bosses applied where the handles are fatened on reverse (see the detail of the one the hunter is holding in the central panel). The shield is clearly made as a presentation piece, it features an unusually heavy gauge (2330 grams) and is extremely detailed and crisp, probably commissioned to commemorate or celebrate a hunting-related event.

It is very rare to find silver shields. A presentation silver-gilt Dhal, enamelled and jewelled, depicting various hunting scenes, was presented to King Edward VII (when Prince of Wales) during his tour of India (1875-76) by Ranbir Singh, Maharaja of Kasmir ([please follow this link](http://www.royalcollection.org.uk/collection/11278/dhal-shield) to the Royal Collection).

It has been acid tested and shows a 900+ silver standard, probably made in Lacknow or Poona, it dates between the 1880 - 1900.

CONDITION

In Great Condition - No damage.

SIZE

Diameter: 38.3cm

Weight: 2330g

REFERENCE NUMBER: A3123