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Model Helmet

Qin dynasty (221–206 BCE)
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
This model helmet replicates the iron headgear that began to supplant bronze examples in the late Warring States period (475–221 B.C.). All of the First Emperor’s terracotta warriors wear suits of armor, but none wears a helmet. The reason for this may be the nature of the terracotta army’s function: to simulate a funerary procession for their ruler. According to protocol, subordinates had to remove their helmets when appearing before the emperor.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 秦 石胄
  • Title: Model Helmet
  • Period: Qin dynasty (221–206 BCE)
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Limestone
  • Dimensions: H. 14 15/16 in. (38 cm); W. 8 1/4 in. (21 cm); Wt. (including support) 13.2 lb. (6 kg)
  • Classification: Tomb Pottery
  • Credit Line: Lent by Shaanxi Provincial Institute of Archaeology
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art