Early Tibetan Arm Guard with Ironwork 15th 16th Century

 A very rare and early Tibetan wrist guard. Very similar armguards are in collections in the Met. Museum and are dated between the 15th and 16th centuries. This example is in good condition, and retains the surface pierced and chiselled iron strapwork to give it strength against blows. The thick hide is hard with age, and retains it’s painted surface blackened with age, traces of goldwork suggest the leather was colourfully painted with gold and perhaps red lac. Beautiful piece of early arm armour. Near identical strapwork can be seen on chests and shields dating to the 15th century