Helmet

13th - 15th century

Known 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.

Steel, iron, and silver

13 in.

44.639

Provenance: Purchased from [Nasli M. Heeramaneck, New York, April 1942] from Seattle Exhibition for Fuller Collection

Photo: Elizabeth Mann

Not currently on view

Resources

Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Asian Art Museum, Boundless: Stories of Asian Art, Feb. 8, 2020 - ongoing [on view beginning Jan. 13, 2023].

Seattle Art Museum respectfully acknowledges that we are on Indigenous land, the traditional territories of the Coast Salish people. We honor our ongoing connection to these communities past, present, and future.

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