Coloring Book of Armor, The

The Coloring Book of Armor showcases a remarkable selection of armour in the collection of  The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, giving artists of all ages the opportunity to explore a wide range of designs from a variety of countries. Armour was initially developed for the practical purpose of protecting the wearer from injury, but it also fulfilled other functions. When decorated with magical or religious symbols and texts, it could invoke the powerful assistance of outside forces, including gods. When featuring the emblems of a community or leader, it fostered a sense of belonging. When made of or decorated with precious materials, it denoted wealth and rank. Here there are more than 30 line drawings for colouring, including a dragon-shaped shaffron (horse’s head defence) used in tournaments by the future Henry II of France; a German painted tournament shield, or targe; the highly decorative suit of armour worn by George Clifford, a favourite of Elizabeth I of England; a 17th-century Japanese helmet in the shape of a crouching rabbit; and distinctive armour of chain mail and steel plate from the Indian kingdom of Sindh. Photographs of all pieces allow you to follow the original decorations, or you may decide to create your own dazzling colour schemes. The book also features a concise description of each item, highlighting its origin, materials and function. A delightful introduction to an extraordinary art form, this volume will inspire you to learn more about armour and what it can tell us about our ancestors and different traditions and cultures around the world.

• A new colouring book showcasing the amazingly elaborate armour in the collection of  The Metropolitan Museum of Art

  With over 30 drawings to bring to life, either by experimenting with the colours, patterns and motifs of the original decorations, or by letting your creativity run free

• Features an introduction by the expert curator Pierre Terjanian

• Published in association with the Vilcek Foundation, New York