Armet with Mask Visor

Unknown

ca. 1520–25 · Steel · Arms and Armor

Helmets fitted with masklike visors were a popular German fashion about 1510 to 1540. Visors forged as humorous or grotesque human masks were often worn in tournaments held during the exuberant pre-Lenten (Shrovetide) festivals, celebrations somewhat akin to modern Mardi Gras. The deep cuts on the left side of this example suggest that it was used in a mock battle, or tourney, fought by groups of horsemen armed with lances and swords. The helmet's powerful sculptural form, technical accomplishment, and imaginitive conception demonstrate the armorer's virtuosity.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1520–25

Medium

Steel

Culture

German, Nuremberg or Austrian, Innsbruck

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Gift of William H. Riggs, 1913