The Santal (or Santhal, earlier also called Sontal) are one of the largest tribes (‘adivasi’) in India (c. 6 mil.). They live in the Indian federal states of Jharkhand, West Bengal, Bihar, Orissa and Assam. The present round shield is a good example of the simple, but thought-out weapon technique of the once bellicose Santal: the relatively small shield consists of a round copper disc, which is set with a heavy, round iron protrusion. Around the outer rim runs a decorative engraved brass band. 14 small copper hemispheres in relief serve as reinforcement and stabilisation. All other additions on the shield consist of iron and are constructed for ‘man versus man’ close combat: on the central, iron shield boss sits a tetragonal, pointed spike (9.5 cm long). On one side a broad, iron, four-pointed spike protrudes over the edge of the shield (21 cm long). Across from this effective thrust weapon is an attached iron hook for ‘trapping’ the opponent in close combat or tear his shield from him. Also, above the shield’s surface is a semicircular iron frame attached on three iron ridges. This is a so-called ‘sword breaker’ to protect against the stabs of the opponent. The backside of this Santal shield is covered in indigo-coloured, blue fabric and a hand cushion. Complete with two short grips made of braided leather, attached on iron rings. A perfect, interesting object, hardly any age-related damage. 19th century to the beginning of the 20th century; DM: 26 cm (round shield), W: 55 cm (from the apex of the side-spike to the hook). (ME)