Human world
Helmet of the Paro Penlop's bodyguard
Paro, Bhutan, about 1900
Accession Number 53.42.77
Bodyguards for the chief official of Paro district in Bhutan wore helmets like this. This one was probably a gift to Younghusband.
In 1903-4 Francis Younghusband led a British Mission to Tibet to secure British interests in the region. He was a charismatic leader, committed to the ideals of the British Empire, who became very spiritual during his time in Lhasa.
His collection includes objects taken during the military mission as well as objects received in friendship.