Originally listed at $8,500...

Central Asia, Persia / Northern India, Mughal or Indo-Persian culture, ca. 19th century CE. A superb display of antique iron chahar-ayneh or char-aina cuirass armor with matching bazu or dastana arm guards and the original chainmail, with superb details of gold and silver gilt. The cuirass consists of a breast and back plate, and side plates with curved tops for the wearer's arms. The buckles on each plate with the addition of leather straps would have held this piece in place. The arm guards provide full coverage to the outer forearm, and the inside plate is shorter to allow for elbow movement. Attached to the wrists are chainmail shaped like mittens to drape over the hands and thumb for the greatest amount of dexterity and protection. Across the plates and arms guards are very intricate foliate arabesque motifs painted in silver and gold gilt. Size: 19.5" L x 14" W (49.5 cm x 35.6 cm); 23.5" H (59.7 cm) on included custom stand; (breast plate): 12" L x 8.75" W (30.5 cm x 22.2 cm); gold quality: 22.54 to 22.79%

Chahar-ayneh armor was used in Asia, India, and central Asia and originated from the Chinese use of bronze discs as mirrors, which happened to be strong enough to be used as pectoral plates. In the Persian and Mughal period empire these pieces not only physically but spiritually protected the wearer with inscriptions from the Quran inscribed on the surface. The plates on the torso are not form fitting and are usually worn over a hauberk chainmail tunic or with padding for added protection.

For a similar example and more information please see the Harvard Art Museum's website, object number: 1959.201B.

Provenance: private San Francisco, California, USA collection, acquired 1970s to 2000s

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#170441

Pin on arm guard is removable on one to open the hinge, the other guard is stiff and immobile. Some losses to chain links on mail. Buckles on plates are intact and articulate. Minor nicks and abrasions, but overall excellent with great details and gilt. Russet patina on interior.