Mail Shirt

possibly Iranian

Not on view

Each ring of this mail shirt is stamped with the same Arabic inscription, “Allah, Muhammad, 'Ali, Fatima, Hasan, Husayn,” referring to God, Muhammad, and the Prophet’s immediate family, known as the “people of the cloak,” who the Shi'a consider the holy family of Islam. Worn close to the warrior’s body, their names had a talismanic value, offering spiritual as well as corporeal protection.

Mail Shirt, Iron, possibly Iranian

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Mail Shirt, Iron, possibly Iranian
Mail Shirt, Iron, possibly Iranian
Mail Shirt, Iron, possibly Iranian
Mail Shirt, Iron, possibly Iranian
Mail Shirt, Iron, possibly Iranian

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