Possible date attribution for Persian shield

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When one is trying to determine the age of Islamic arms there is a generalism of the better the craftsmanship the old the object is. But this is something that is not written in stone, there are exceptions in levels of craftsmenship both in single pieces and also during reigns.

In Persian art the Safavid period (1502-1722) is considered a time of high levels of quality craftsmanship coupled with strong support of artisens from the ruling class.

During the following Qajar Dynasty (1781-1925), the Period of Faht Ali Shah's rule, (1797-1834) also seems to have a resurgence in the level of craftsmanship. There is even the rebirth of earlier designs- patterns, possibly reaching to bring back the glory from their history.

The Persian culture has a long history that shows their appreciation of metalwork. The book "Persian Steel", The Tanavoli Collection, by James Allan shows many examples of every day use articles made from embellished steel. Just point this out because the Persian culture in particular seems to have an afinity for articles made from steel.

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