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Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Mail Shirt with Attached Inscription
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Image © Worcester Art Museum, all rights reserved.

Mail Shirt with Attached Inscription

Date1500s–1700s
Mediumiron with leather fragment
Dimensions80 × 120 cm (31 1/2 × 47 1/4 in.), 30 lb 6 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.841
DescriptionV-neck. Collar is deteriorated, formerly had leather reinforcing. Mid-length, cusped sleeves. Hem has a short slit front and back.

Very heavy shirt of robust riveted links, about 1cm interior diameter, 13mm ext. Interior cusp on rings at rivet. Links alternate riveted and solid at hemline. Round rivets, slightly proud.

2 brazed "amulets" on skirt at right side of fork slit (1 an arsenal disc?--having an inscription in Arabic script, see digital photos).

Some links have become detached and are kept in a separate bag.
ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins on July 14, 1928 from Fenton & Sons, Ltd., London, England. Given to the Museum on December 26, 1946. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on view
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Indian
probably 1800s
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Ottoman
1600s-1700s
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Northern Indian
possibly 1700s
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Indian
probably 1600s
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Nuremberg
early 1500s, modified into 1800s
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Persian
probably 1600–1650
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Persian
1600s-1800s
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Northern Indian
1700s
Mail Coat
Persian
1500s, with later alterations