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Model Helmet

Qin dynasty (221–206 BCE)

Not on view

This model helmet replicates the iron headgear that began to supplant bronze examples in the late Warring States period (475–221 B.C.). All of the First Emperor’s terracotta warriors wear suits of armor, but none wears a helmet. The reason for this may be the nature of the terracotta army’s function: to simulate a funerary procession for their ruler. According to protocol, subordinates had to remove their helmets when appearing before the emperor.

Model Helmet, Limestone, China — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

秦石胄

Title: Model Helmet

Period: Qin dynasty (221–206 BCE)

Culture: China

Medium: Limestone

Dimensions: H. 14 15/16 in. (38 cm); W. 8 1/4 in. (21 cm); Wt. (including support) 13.2 lb. (6 kg)

Classification: Tomb Pottery

Credit Line: Lent by Shaanxi Provincial Institute of Archaeology

The Met

Asian Art at The Met

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world.