19th C. Tibetan Iron Plated Military Helmet

Central Asia, Tibet, ca. 19th century CE. A wonderful example of a military helmet made of iron and leather. The helmet consists of a hemispherical cap shape made from multiple panels riveted together, a short brim at the front, and a finial knob surmounting the top. Supporting plates riveted over the seams and exterior create a pleasing design and reinforce the helmet. Attached to the rim are segmented lamellae plates connected by cords of leather through piercings to cover the ears and the back of the neck. A rich russet patina envelops the surface of the iron. This helmet style originates in Tibet, but this popular style spread east to China, Mongolia, Korea, and Japan, where similar helmets were created. This helmet may have been lined with leather or cloth to cushion the wearer's skull. Size: 17" L x 7.75" W (43.2 cm x 19.7 cm)

Provenance: ex-private Arcadia, California, USA collection, acquired prior to 2000

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

#164615
Condition Report: Cracking and fraying to leather cords. Losses to leather with some plates attached or reinforced with modern wire. Minor bending to metal plates. Surface abrasions and pitting as expected with age and use. Great preservation and rich patina.