Mail Coat
Culture, using
Persian
,
Cultureand
European
components
Date1300s-1800s
Mediumiron and brass
Dimensions109 × 120 cm (42 15/16 × 47 1/4 in.), 14 lb 10 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.854
DescriptionLinks from very diverse sources, some evidently Islamic, some perhaps European, perh. 16-19c. Some sections riveted, some alternate riveted and butted. Chest links 12mm ext dia, 10 mm int. Some link interiors lightly cusped. Medium length-sleeves.
Label TextMail remained in use in northern and Sudanic Africa longer than in Europe or the Middle East. As a result, there was a thriving trade in old mail, as unused body armor was exported to African markets, where they were often altered to meet local tastes and preferences.ProvenanceCollection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
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