SOLD Antique 16th-18th century Turkish Ottoman steel-mounted Islamic wicker Shield Kalkan. DETAILS: Domed and of circular form composed of concentric wicker woven with coloured thread, the exterior made up of radial steel bars linking the steel frame, steel domed center boss with rosette and five square finials. The interior center set with wood and remains of the original red fabric lining, , leather strap, and six iron rings for suspension.
This type of wicker kalkan shield became emblematic of the Golden Age of the Ottoman Empire for the Turkish soldiery, some of these types of Islamic wicker shields were made for high rank officers as large luxurious parade shields decorated with gold and embellished with precious stones. This particular one is a typical smaller combat shield, therefore, more manoeuvrable form of a shield designed to protect the Ottoman warrior from attack by archers. The flexibility of the wicker absorbed the power of the arrow, and the swords.
Diameter: 28 cm (11 in).
CONDITION: In good condition considering its age, some minor wear to the thread.
REFERENCES: (1) Sotheby’s Arts of Islamic World London 12 October 2000. Lot167. (2) Bonhams. The Jacques Desenfans Collection. 10 April 2008
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