A translucent rhinoceros hide shield or dhal painted with concentric bands of floral design surrounding a centre reserve with the face of Chandra, the Hindu lunar deity. The shield is embellished with four large bosses encrusted with diamonds, rubies and emeralds. A large medallion representing two makara- or dragon-heads encrusted in diamonds, emeralds and rubies affixed to the top of the shield.

The hide would have to be carefully prepared to give it the transparent quality that was highly prized in India. These were costly to produce and accordingly richly jewelled to enhance the appearance, and often work for ceremonial or courtly purposes. Attached to the back of the shield is a purple velvet band and cushion thickly embroidered with silver- and gold-thread embroidery and sequins. This type of embroidery is called zardozi.