Shield

Unknown

first half 17th century · Wood, leather, lacquer, gold, pigment, gesso, copper alloy, iron · Arms and Armor

A remarkable example of the global trade in luxury goods during the seventeenth century, this wood shield was probably constructed in India, decorated in Southeast Asia, then exported to Europe. The face is lacquered in black, a technique then common in Asia but rare in the West, and emblazoned with an unidentified coat of arms. The owner likely carried it in public as a display of wealth and style.

Artist

Unknown

Date

first half 17th century

Medium

Wood, leather, lacquer, gold, pigment, gesso, copper alloy, iron

Culture

probably Indian; lacquerwork, Southeast Asian, Thailand or Burma (Myanmar)

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Gift of William H. Riggs, 1913