Large one-of-a-kind silver and gilt polo shield of Indian interest

This large, very fine, and unique item is a superb example of Indian metalwork: a sporting trophy dating to 1927, that commemorates a polo contest in India in which the Maharajah of Ratlam, among others, competed. It is framed with ebonised wood and mounted with an intricate arrangement of gilt-metal and silvered panels.

Decorated with Indian landmarks, including the Jama Masjid, Delhi, the Golden Temple, Amritsar and others, it is intermittently adorned with beautiful engraved details depicting enthroned deities, animals, and portraits. The shield is centred with a monogram denoting, 'EI,' in a sun-burst central gilt piece. Around this small foliate panels in alternating silver and gilt are arranged, within a gilt foliate frieze and rings of beads.

In the centre portraits in gilding are placed within images of animals, including elephants, monkeys playing with snakes, tigers, and peacocks. A list of India cities then ensues, including Mysore, Bikanir, Indore, Patiala, Tehri, and Ratlam, and the widest section depicts multi-armed Hindu deities between Indian landmarks and cultural centres.

There are also four plaques mounted, one of which is inscribed with the names of the participants. The winning team is listed, and included Major E. D. Metcalfe, Captain C. T. I. Roark, The Maharajah of Ratlam, and Lt. Col. the Hon. J. D. Y. Bingham. Together they won with 6 goals to, according to the inscription. This unique piece captures a snapshot of sporting history and will be of great interest to those with a love of sporting memorabilia and an appreciation for Indian metalwork.