Auctions Imperial 2017 May Arms & Armor
Lot 218:
Description
One of a small number of rare European-style cuirasses made for the Nizam of Hyderabad in the late 17th-early 18th century. Wrought of fine, actively-patterned wootz damascus steel, the breastplate with well-modeled pectorals, both breast and backplate with central ridge. With separately applied scalloped steel borders with projecting central trefoil throughout, the backplate with applied standing neckguard. Inscribed at the left shoulder SARKAR MIR NIZAM ALI KHAN BAHADUR 1163 ( 1749/50 C.E., ) the year in which the second Nizam ordered the Hyderabad arsenal inventoried. Secured by retaining pins at the sides and shoulders. Latter 17th century. Worn overall, period repairs to fasteners, areas of corrosion. For another cuirass from this group, see D. Alexander, The Arts of War. Arms and Armour of the 7th to 19th centuries (The Nasser D. Khalili Collection of Islamic Art, VOL XXI) (1992: Oxford. Nour.) p. 174, #108. Overall height 47.2 cm. Condition IV
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