Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very attractive small Indo-Persian circular shield, commonly described as a dhal, dating to approximately the late 18th or early 19th century. Measuring only 8 3/4 inches in diameter, it is considerably smaller than a full-sized dhal and was most likely intended for use as a hand-held parrying shield or buckler.

The dhal was a traditional circular shield used throughout the Indian subcontinent, while comparable Persian examples are often called sipar. These shields were produced in several materials, including steel and various types of prepared hide. Both metal and hide examples are known from India, while Persian shields were also frequently made from decorated steel. Their relatively shallow convex form allowed them to deflect blows while remaining maneuverable in close combat.

This example is made from metal and decorated across its entire front surface with engraved and painted panels. The panels contain repeated floral ornamentation created through engraved or stamped work, with contrasting painted details. The combination of metalworking and painted decoration gives the shield an especially appealing appearance despite its compact size.

The face is fitted with the traditional arrangement of four large brass bosses. These bosses conceal and reinforce the attachment points for the four corresponding rings on the reverse. The rings would have supported the hand grips or suspension cords used to hold and control the shield.

Remarkably, the reverse still retains the original felt pad positioned between the four rings. This padding would have protected the back of the hand and helped cushion the shield against the force of an impact. The survival of this easily lost interior component adds considerably to the interest of the piece.

The small proportions, dense floral decoration, brass bosses, complete set of rear rings, and surviving felt hand pad make this a particularly appealing example of Indo-Persian defensive equipment. It displays the same ornamental vocabulary found on larger dhal shields while presenting it in a compact and unusual format.