Helmet
Date1800s
Mediumrusseted iron with gilding
Dimensions30 × 54 × 21 cm (11 13/16 × 21 1/4 × 8 1/4 in.), 5 lb, 9 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.91
DescriptionConical skull constructed of 2 halves riveted together at front and rear; tall pyramidal finial plugged in at apex; applied browband riveted to skull around skull's lower edge, with seam in front; sliding nasal with arrow-shaped tip; nasal somewhat cruder in execution than helmet, may be a later addition or replacement. Finial, skull, and rim gilt with a striated design. Iron aventail alternates riveted and punched links; butted links attach it to the helmet rim.Label TextThis helmet represents a local African version of a widespread Islamic style. Its pointed bowl and mail neckguard can be compared to the nearby Indian kulah khud, but the conical form and arrow-shaped noseguard are typically Sudanic. This is a particularly fine example that still retains much of its original gold-covered surface. It was certainly made for a high-ranking military leader.ProvenancePurchased by Museum from Robert Abels (NYC) on March 30, 1954. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
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