Helmet

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This example was originally fitted with a brim and a sliding nasal bar, cheek pieces, and a nape defense. A complete helmet of this type is also in the Metropolitan Museum's collection (acc. no. 36.25.126). The decoration around the rim consists of lotus blossoms and split leaf palmettes on intertwining stems. Similar foliate ornament is found on Ottoman textiles, ceramics, and metalwork of the period.

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