Indian Plaque with Lion Figures

Two lions, a crown, and a great deal of curlicue.

This brass plaque with lion figures is from India and dates to the 19th century. Lions and crowns are common emblems of power in heraldic imagery. Two lions stand upright and face each other on either side of a crown in this relief. Clusters of grapes and scrolling leaves fill the shield-shaped field around them. The brass has dulled to olive-green and brown, with darker recesses, and it rests on a small stand.

About 5 inches across. Tiny coat of arms, serious pretensions.