An exceedingly rare set with fine mother of pearl inlaid string board

Length 116 cm
Width 31.5 cm
Height of dome 7 cm
4120 grams
Wood, iron, lacquer and pigments
Vietnam
19th century
An American private collector
Description
A rare type of rectangular wooden shield from Vietnam. The main shield appears to be carved out of a single piece of wood. Attached to its back by means of two strong iron nails is a handle at the back with an extra rectangular slot. For a sword, perhaps?
An old piece of cord is attached to the grip as well. At the top of the shield are two iron rings, their purpose unknown.
The face of the shield is painted black. It is decorated with a tàijí (太极) symbol in the center, representing the harmony of the opposing forces. On either end are mythical beasts, probably dragons judging from the scales. In their mouths is a tablet with a highly stylized longevity character, shòu (壽) on it.
A repair at the bottom is done with something like clay, painted over. It broke again and was re-glued.














Inspired by uchigatana brought into Vietnam by Japanese refugees who settled along the coast.
Collected by a Russian prince from the hill peoples of central Vietnam in 1892.