Helmet (rmog)
Unknown Artist
15th–17th century
Medium
Iron, gold, silver, copper
Dimensions
H. 7 5/8 in. (19.5 cm); Diam. 8 in. (20.3 cm); Wt. 2 lb. 13.6 oz (1292 g)
Classification
Helmets
Culture
Mongolian
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase, Gift of William H. Riggs, by exchange, 1999
Accession Number
1999.120
Tags
Art Historical Context
This striking Mongolian helmet, known as a *rmog*, dates to the 15th–17th centuries and exemplifies the formidable craftsmanship of nomadic warriors in Central Asia. Crafted from iron for robust protection, it is embellished with gold, silver, and copper, creating a luxurious contrast that hints at its use by elite fighters or leaders. Measuring just 7⅝ inches high and 8 inches in diameter, yet weighing nearly 3 pounds, it balances portability with defensive strength, ideal for mounted combat on the vast steppes. In Mongolian culture, such helmets were essential for horseback archery and clos...