Helmet

Unknown

1350–1450 · Iron, gold · Arms and Armor

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.

Artist

Unknown

Date

1350–1450

Medium

Iron, gold

Culture

Mongolian or Chinese

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Purchase, Arthur Ochs Sulzberger Gift, 2005