Mongolian or Chinese Helmet in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, April 2011

Helmet
1350–1450
Mongolian or Chinese

Object Details

Title: Helmet

Date: 1350–1450

Culture: Mongolian or Chinese

Medium: Iron, gold

Dimensions: H. 7 1/2 in. (19.1 cm); Diam. 8 1/4 in. (21 cm); Wt. 2 lb. 2.4 oz. (969.6 g)

Classification: Helmets

Credit Line: Purchase, Arthur Ochs Sulzberger Gift, 2005

Accession Number: 2005.270

Based on its decoration and construction, this helmet appears to date from the late Yuan (1279–1368) to the early Ming dynasty (1368–1644), a period from which surviving armor is very rare. The style of decoration exhibits Tibetan and Mongolian influence. The technique of damascening with flat strips of gold instead of gold wire is found on only a few other pieces. The design centers around a flaming mandorla engraved with the image of a seated Buddha, flanked on each side by a lotus on a leafy stalk and a large four-clawed dragon. Other small motifs are interspersed throughout, including flames, clouds, and auspicious symbols from the set known as the Seven Jewels.

Text from: www.metmuseum.org/Collections/search-the-collections/4000...