Sixteen-Plate Helmet

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The classic and most recognizable type of Tibetan helmet consists of eight overlapping plates joined by leather laces. This helmet is a much rarer form made up of sixteen plates, of which the outer plates have cusped edges drawn to steep points. It is very similar to a helmet belonging to a Tibetan armor in the British Museum, on deposit from the Royal Collections, which was among several items presented to King George V by the Thirteenth Dalai Lama in 1912.

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