Armet

Unknown

ca. 1490, with later additions · Steel, brass · Arms and Armor

The medieval English custom of hanging a helmet over a tomb as part of the deceased's funerary "achievement" continued well into the seventeeth century. Thanks to this practice, numerous early helmets have been preserved. Like many "church helmets," this example is composite, being made up of old, reused parts assembled somewhat haphazardly for mortuary use. The bowl, which originally was fitted with a brow reinforce, and the cheekpieces are Italian. The right side of the bowl at the back bears faint traces of three Milanese armorers' marks: a crown surmounting letters and, struck twice below, a split-legged cross enclosing two letters. (The visor and upper bevor are adapted from other helmets and the rondel is modern.)

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1490, with later additions

Medium

Steel, brass

Culture

Italian, Milan

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Gift of George D. Pratt, 1928