Helmet
Date13th - 15th century
Maker
Islamic
Label TextKnown as a turban helmet for its bulbous shape, this soldier’s helmet contains a worn inscription around its rim with the name “Muhammad” visible at the back. The name could reference Prophet Muhammad, or it could be part of the name of a ruler or sultan. The two half-circles on the rim are openings for the eyes. Between these a nasal bar was attached to protect the nose; only the lugs now remain. The finial, forged separately and attached to the rest of the helmet, helped to fend off birds who might attack the wearer during battle.
Object number44.639
ProvenancePurchased from [Nasli M. Heeramaneck, New York, April 1942] from Seattle Exhibition for Fuller Collection
Photo CreditPhoto: Elizabeth Mann
Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Asian Art Museum, Boundless: Stories of Asian Art, Feb. 8, 2020 - ongoing [on view beginning Jan. 13, 2023].Dimensions13 in.
MediumSteel, iron, and silver
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