Mail Shirt

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Each ring of this mail shirt is stamped with the same Arabic inscription, “Allah, Muhammad, 'Ali, Fatima, Hasan, Husayn,” referring to God, Muhammad, and the Prophet’s immediate family, known as the “people of the cloak,” who the Shi'a consider the holy family of Islam. Worn close to the warrior’s body, their names had a talismanic value, offering spiritual as well as corporeal protection.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The principal goals of the Arms and Armor Department are to collect, preserve, research, publish, and exhibit distinguished examples representing the art of the armorer, swordsmith, and gunmaker. Arms and armor have been a vital part of virtually all cultures for thousands of years, pivotal not only in conquest and defense, but also in court pageantry and ceremonial events. Throughout time the best armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical capabilities of the society and period in which they were made, forming a unique aspect of both art history and material culture.

Metropolitan Museum of Art