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Eight-Plate Helmet

8th–10th century
Not on view
A forerunner of the classic Tibetan eight-plate style, this helmet appears to be the earliest extant helmet, and possibly the earliest piece of metal armor with clearly distinguishable Tibetan characteristics. It includes a unique combination of features found on various forms of segmented helmets with riveted construction, which were in use across Eurasia from about the fourth century onward. Features specific to later Tibetan helmets are the basic eight-plate construction, the subtly cusped edges of the outer plates of the helmet bowl, and the distinctively Tibetan form of the plume finial.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Eight-Plate Helmet
  • Date: 8th–10th century
  • Culture: possibly Tibetan
  • Medium: Iron, copper alloy, leather
  • Dimensions: H. 8 1/2 in. (21.6 cm); W. 7 1/2 in. (19.1 cm); D. 9 in. (22.9 cm); Wt. 2 lb. 4.5 oz. (1034.8 g)
  • Classification: Helmets
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Arthur Ochs Sulzberger Gift, 2002
  • Object Number: 2002.226
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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