Indian 'dhal', or shield, 1857 (c)

This rattan shield was reputedly used by Mr Thomas Henry Kavanagh as part of his disguise to pass through enemy lines at the Siege of Lucknow in 1857.

Kavanagh, a member of the Bengal Civil Service, won the Victoria Cross for his exploits during the Indian Mutiny (1857-1859). On 9 November 1857, he stained his hands and face, cut his fair hair short and wore the dress of an Indian irregular soldier, and escaped from the besieged Residency at Lucknow in order to guide in the relieving force.