Armored Vest (Manchira)

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Armored Vest (Manchira) is a sleeveless garment with a high, rounded collar. The vest's main body is made up of hexagonal patches in various shades of brown, gold, and dark blue, arranged in a patchwork pattern. The patches feature intricate designs, including floral motifs and geometric patterns. The edges of the vest are trimmed with white stitching. There are five pairs of off-white laces down the center and sides, used for fastening. The inside of the collar is lined with a dark green material and a multicolored braid. The vest is displayed on a black mannequin torso with a wooden stand. The background is a plain off-white color.