Persian Demon Mask Helmet

Persian Demon mask helmet; a semi-circular metal helmet, made of grooved dark metal with elaborate painted gold decoration in a folite pattern along the grooves, which radiate from the top to the brim. The front of the helmet bears a raised nose, eyes and eyebrows, painted with gold to make it more startling. A moustache is also painted on. The brim of the helmet is bordered by a band of gold foliate decoration. At the top of the helmet there is a raised piece with a screw hole- the piece intended to go there is missing. On one side of the helmet there is attached a metal horn with further gold decoration. The other horn is missing, with only screws remaining. Along the rim of the helmet are holes and remnants of chain mail, as if it extended into a cuirass but the mail has been lost. Late Qujar period.