Close Helmet of Claude Gouffier (1501–1570)

Unknown

ca. 1555–60 · Steel, gold, brass · Arms and Armor

This is an excellent example of a French heavy cavalry helmet of the mid-sixteenth century. Its elaborate decoration includes the monogram of Claude Gouffier (1501–1570), Master of the Horse (Grand Écuyer) for Henry II and Charles IX. This monogram is also on a knee piece from the armor of Gouffier's in the Metropolitan Museum's collection (acc. no. 1994.390).

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1555–60

Medium

Steel, gold, brass

Culture

French

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Gift of William H. Riggs, 1913