Indo-persian Helmet Called Kulah Khud Anthropomorphic With Horns

Mughal India or Safavid Persia, 18th century.

Hemispherical steel skull, richly engraved with vegetal scrolls and cartouches, with traces of gold

damascening. The frontal part is embossed with a stylized anthropomorphic face, large almond-shaped

eyes and curved moustache, enhancing the supernatural appearance.

The top is surmounted by a lanceolate finial, flanked by two curved iron horns. A nasal guard descends

on the face, ending with a pierced wheel-shaped medallion.

A riveted mail aventail protects the neck and cheeks, while the interior still retains its red textile lining, a

rare survival.

Condition: Very good overall, damascening partially preserved, crisp reliefs, complete mail, original textile

lining.

Museum comparisons: Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (inv. 36.25.89); Musée de l’Armée, Paris;

Victoria & Albert Museum, London.