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Dhal an Indian shield, also used in Persia (sipar) and other countries between. It is nearly always round and varies in diameter from about eight inches to about twenty-four. Some are very nealy flat while others are strongly convex. The edges maybe flat or rolled back in the reverse direction to that of the curvature of the shield. It is held by two handles fastened to ring bolts that pass through the shield and are riveted to bosses on the outside. Between the handles there is a square cushion for the knuckles to rest against. The handles are so placed that, when tighly grasped, they are forced the backs of the fingers against the cushion giving a very firm and confortable hold. Some Persian shields have three handles, two placed at the center as usal, and a third loop near the edge. The arm can be passed through the third loop and the center handles held in the hand: or it can be held by the center handles only. Some Scotch targets have similarhandles. These shields are nearly always of steel or leather (rhinoceros, buffalo or elephant hide). Occassioally turtle shell and other materials are used for making these shields. The steel shields are usually inlaid with gold and / or silver and the entire surface is sometimes covered with inscriptions, animals and decorations. The hide shields are decorated with gilding and painting.

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Dhal Indian Shield

Large steel Dhal shield circa 1850

Dhal shield made of leather (rhinoceros, buffalo or elephant hide)

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