Turban Helmet with Neck Guard of Mail and Nose Guard
Date:
16th century (early Safavid)
Description:
Helmets like this, which have preserved their original chain-mail "aventail," or face and neck covering, have been likened to masks that conceal the face and create a sense of mystery. Their primary function, however, was to protect the wearer. Islamic helmets often were decorated with inscriptions that invoke God's power and blessing. Sometimes, as here, the writing cannot be easily deciphered and may even be meaningless-the presence of letter-like designs was evidently regarded as sufficient protection.For the latest information about this object, helmets, visit art.thewalters.org.Dynasty: Safavid DynastyInscriptions: Reign: Style:
Arsenal of Constantinople; d'Orville [date and mode of acquisition unknown] (?); Dikran Kelekian, New York and Paris [date and mode of acquisition unknown]; Henry Walters, Baltimore, 1911, by purchase; Walters Art Museum, 1931, by bequest.
Medium:
steel, inlaid with silver
Extent:
Dimensions: 20 1/16 x 9 3/16 x 8 15/16 in. (51 x 23.4 x 22.7 cm)
