Ceremonial Armor

18th century

Not on view

This armor, undoubtedly for a high-ranking military official, is exhibited with an associated helmet decorated with applied gold ornaments. These include the Buddhist mantra Om mani padme hum in Lantsa characters, which were often used for sacred inscriptions and texts in Tibet, China, and other Buddhist countries.

The armor and helmet are very similar to a set donated by the Qinglong emperor to a Tibetan monastery in 1757.

Artwork Details

Overview

References

Title: Ceremonial Armor
Date: 18th century
Culture: Chinese
Medium: Steel, copper, gold, silk, metallic thread
Classification: Armor for Man
Credit Line: helmet: Bequest of George C. Stone, 1935; body armor: Gift of Lai-Yuan and Co., 1916; sword with scabbard: The Collection of Giovanni P. Morosini, presented by his daughter Giulia, 1932; spear: Bequest of George C. Stone, 1935
Object Number: 16.118.29b–i,l,m;32.75.301;36.25.5a,2061
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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