Unusual Indian Shield

[Runjeet Singh]

Dear all,

Can anybody help identify or comment on the unusual Iconography on this Indian shield from the early 20th Century?

The velvet cushion gives some indication to the age, and the way the border of the cushion has copper stitching give some indication that this was made with some thought and expense.

Regards,
Runjeet

[Andrew]

Please do not post photos with commercial website URLs or watermarks.

[A Senefelder]

The iconography appears to be a blend of European mythology with Indian fashion. You have what appears to be a satyr in Indian garb, what I believe is called a cockatrice, something that may be a pheonix ect. Possibly this indicates it intention to target the English tourist market. This is a very nice late example by the way.

[Runjeet Singh]

Thank you for your reply - A.Senefelder, I think you are onto something, an idea I have also been toying with. I cannot find anything from Hindu mythology that accurately matches the images on the shield. So it could be a mixture of mythology - essentially the maker has been given artistic licence?

If that is the case, surely he has taken some influence from Persian art with the horsemen? And from Mysore (Tipu Sultan) with the distinct Bubri Tiger stripe - on a deer and on the legs of the half man / half beast?!

I attach a full image of the shield - to comply with Forum rules.

Regards,
Runjeet

[A Senefelder]

on a deer and on the legs of the half man / half beast?!

Runjeet, in European mythology this creature is called a satyr, the one I referenced earlier.

[Runjeet Singh]

Many thanks. I cant find an Indian equivalent, so Satyr it is!