Two Bazu-Band

Kept in a private collection as a pair for nearly two decades, these two steel bazu-band appear almost identical in decoration. Despite being slightly different to each other they might have been made as a pair, with the differing patterns meant to help distinguish the left piece from the right. The buckle arrangements confirm the differing orientations.

Shaped to fit the forearm and slightly flaring out over the wrist, the outer surfaces are chased with floral patterns. Gold damascened borders and cartouches are filled with heavily engraved silver floral sprays, setting these two arm-guards apart as exceptional for their type.