An unusual hide shield from the Sikh area of India. Intricately painted with gilt around the border and in the center, only bare remnants of its former glory remain. The four metal knobs on the top anchor the loops on the reverse that would have held the straps. A small pillow of green velvet remains, and even though the shield is fashioned of very thick hide, it glows translucent in the light, unfortunately not visible in these photos. It measures 14" in diameter. Early 19th century. #8067  $1200