Armor
Unknown Artist
18th century
Medium
Steel, copper alloy, textile, metallic thread
Dimensions
Helmet (a); H. including nape defense 20 3/4 in. (52.7 cm); H. excluding nape defense 11 1/4 in. (28.6 cm); W. 8 1/4 in. (21 cm); D. 10 in. (25.4 cm); Wt. 3 lb. 14.3 oz. (1766.2 g)
Classification
Armor for Man
Culture
Chinese
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of George C. Stone, 1935
Accession Number
36.25.6a–n
Art Historical Context
This exquisite 18th-century Chinese helmet, part of a man's armor ensemble, showcases the masterful craftsmanship of anonymous armorers from imperial China. Forged primarily from steel for durability and protection, it incorporates copper alloy for decorative accents, along with textile linings and intricate metallic threading that suggest both functionality and subtle ornamentation. Measuring about 20¾ inches tall (including its nape defense) and weighing nearly 4 pounds, the helmet's robust yet balanced design—11¼ inches high without the nape plate, 8¼ inches wide, and 10 inches deep—highlig...