Applied Decoration

One type of decoration on this shield is application of gold and silver wire to a surface that has had cross hatched lines incised onto the metals surface sometimes referred to as koftgari. After application the metal is heated, let cool and then the gold and/or silver wire is burnished, this forms a surprisingly good adherance to the surface.The central area of this sipar has the gold koftgari and the outer section nearer the rim has silver koftgari.Another technique used on this shield is whats known as chisel work or engraving. This is where metal is removed from the surface leaving a decorative motif behind. On this shield the primary engraved decorations are floral designs and calligraphy. In the Islamic countries Calligraphy was considered one of the highest forms of art.Another decoratin has a duel purpose, that is the rolled iron rim of the shield. this rolled rim defines the border of the art work applied to the shield and also is an important strengthening technique to resist bending or cutting, it also would catch the tip of a pointed weapons sliding down the shield such as an arrow, spear or sword and possibly preventing that from injuring the shield holder.One of the photo's also shows the shield boss, these are the domed shaped sections on the front of the shield thats function are to allow the eye hook bolts that hold the knuckle pad on this shield. On other shields with more bosses(usually six) they may also hold and arm strap. This addition of an arm strap makes a shield more functional as a defense against a sword.