Mail Shirt
Cultureprobably
Ottoman
Date1600s-1700s
Mediumiron and leather
Dimensions94 × 112 cm (37 × 44 1/8 in.), 19 lb, (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.840
DescriptionShort sleeves, V-neck, mid-thigh length, slit at hem front and back. Collar reinforced with leather strips through the links; it was formerly attached via the lowest leather lace, now supplemented with iron wire; collar may be an association. At least two types of mail are represented. The chest has large, flattish links, riveted, and bearing a stamped "twist" decoration on both sides; these alternate with solid flattish links that are decorated only in front. Elsewhere the links alternate between smaller, undecorated riveted links, and larger solid ones with the stamped "twist" decoration.
Riveted links alternating large and slightly smaller; large are 9mm interior diameter. Many links are adorned with stamped line pattern--rather a nice piece. Riveted links have small internal cusp at rivet. Some compositing of other mail into the mix. There are a few brass links at the neck opening.
ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins on May 1, 1931 from W.O. Oldman (London, England). Given to the Museum on December 26, 1946. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on view
