A SIKH TURBAN HELMET Lahore, Punjab, mid to late 19th century  Of elliptical shape with a secondary smaller dome-like element surmounting the lower bowl, the iron body finely engraved and gilt, the decoration consisting of a central arabesque medallion at the top, interlocking vegetal tendrils in the round, and a band of cross-hatched squares near the edge, pierced to accommodate the mail now gone, 23.2cm x 20.3cm.  Provenance: Bought in the UK art market and in UK private collection since early 1980s. The shape of this helmet, its missing nose-guard and porte-aigrette are certainly unusual elements which link it to the rare Lahore production of Sikh turban helmets. Very few have survived and are now mostly in museums and private collections. It is theorised that while the larger bowl is made to accommodate the wearers head, the smaller dome-like bowl is designed to accommodate the wearer’s hair worn in a top-knot bun. This seamless secondary dome is completely enclosed from all sides with elegant rounded edges and smooth lines where it meets the primary bowl. For a similar example with more intense gold-damascened decoration and its full mail, please see the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco, inventory no. 1998.69.