Sixteen-Plate Helmet

15th–17th century

Not on view

The classic and most recognizable type of Tibetan helmet consists of eight overlapping plates joined by leather laces. This helmet is a much rarer form made up of sixteen plates, of which the outer plates have cusped edges drawn to steep points. It is very similar to a helmet belonging to a Tibetan armor in the British Museum, on deposit from the Royal Collections, which was among several items presented to King George V by the Thirteenth Dalai Lama in 1912.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

References

Title: Sixteen-Plate Helmet
Date: 15th–17th century
Culture: Tibetan
Medium: Iron, hair (yak), leather
Dimensions: H. 7 1/2 in. (19.1 cm); diam. of bowl 8 1/4 in. (21 cm)
Classification: Helmets
Credit Line: Purchase, Funds from various donors, by exchange, 2017
Object Number: 2017.160
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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