indian madu parrying weapon with horns and central dhal shield

 A fascinating parrying shield from India, Madu. Central dhal shield or buckler made from thick steel, adorned with brass fittings including a central chakra motif, four bosses and a crescent in addition to the reinforced edge. Two long antelope horns are mounted to form a handle behind the shield and at their tips are mounted with steel points. These shields were generally used by mendicants to protect themselves but were also used by other armed persons as they could be used offensively as well as defensively. Mid 19th century

indopersian