Description:

Lot 194. AN UNUSUAL CALLIGRAPHIC INSCRIBED CHAIN MAIL ARMOUR, INDIA OR PERSIA, 18TH/19TH CENTURY

This remarkable chain mail armour represents a rare fusion of protective craftsmanship and devotional artistry from India or Persia, dating to the 18th or 19th century.

The cuirass is composed of interlinked iron rings interspersed with square iron plaques, each intricately engraved with calligraphic inscriptions in Arabic script. The inscriptions likely contain Qur’anic verses or invocations for divine protection, reflecting both spiritual and martial symbolism. The plates are connected by hand-forged chain links, forming a flexible yet durable defensive garment.

Several of the plaques retain buckle fastenings, suggesting the piece was intended for practical use rather than purely ceremonial display. The meticulous workmanship and balanced design highlight a period when armour served as both functional defense and sacred protection.

Dimensions:
Length x Width: 58 x 52 cm

Accepted Forms of Payment:

MasterCard, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

We have our own specialist packing and international shipping service and are happy to arrange this for you, we will add a postage and packing quote to your sales invoice. We also offer a door to door courier service to take the stress out of receiving delicate or expensive items.

If you are arranging your own professional delivery, please ensure that the lot has been paid for and the transport company has full details of the items being collected and an appointment has been booked. We work strictly on an appointment basis for dispatching goods.

If you choose to use our services we will ensure goods that have left the auction premises are in perfect condition, by choosing our in house professional packaging services you agree to our terms and conditions and do not hold us accountable for any damages or loss of items in transit. You will be provided with a tracking number and all our packages sent out will require a signature upon delivery. We do not insure goods dispatched unless asked to do so, which will incur additional charges added to your invoice upon request.

We thank you for using our specialist packing & shipping service and hope to continue to do business with you in the near future.

November 7, 2025 1:00 PM GMT
London, United Kingdom

PLAKAS

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 31% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
£0 £99 £5
£100 £199 £10
£200 £499 £20
£500 £999 £50
£1,000 £1,999 £100
£2,000 £4,999 £200
£5,000 £9,999 £500
£10,000 £19,999 £1,000
£20,000 £49,999 £2,000
£50,000 £99,999 £5,000
£100,000 £199,999 £10,000
£200,000 £499,999 £20,000
£500,000 £999,999 £50,000
£1,000,000 + £100,000