Forearm Guard for the Left Arm

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The ornament on this arm guard is very similar to that seen on Tibetan horse armor, but it is larger in scale and its style is bolder. Like other arm guards of this type, its decoration consists of gold leaf covered with an orange-toned shellac and painted with a black pigment, with a clear shellac glaze overall. All known examples of Tibetan forearm guards appear to be for the left arm, suggesting that they were never made in pairs but were used on the left arm only. There are two basic types. One has applied iron struts, like those on Tibetan shields and furniture, often with ornamental piercings. The second type, shown here, has no applied iron fittings. Instead, the leather surface is entirely covered with varnished and gilded decoration. The same style and technique of decoration is also found on Tibetan bow cases and quivers.

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