Dutch Colonial Wars period, C.1873-98. Hammered brass, 10 1/2” diameter, domed with scalloped edge. Chisel/punch decorated throughout with six applied domed center stars decorated to match. Four anchoring the hand grips and two completing the pattern for blade capture. Reverse with original cord grip matrix mounted with a later hook for wall hanging. Excellent with fine patina. Dutch ambitions in Aceh were fueled by the newly created trade route through the Suez Canal which could bring spires and pepper to market. To that point, Dutch interest had been tolerated as minimal and acceptable. The initial Dutch attack was repelled with unacceptable casualties and the war degenerated into sporadic local battles and guerilla warfare with the Aceh attacking from ambush with short swords and these bucklers.
