Close Helmet with Mask Visor in Form of a Human Face

Kolman Helmschmid

ca. 1515 · Steel, gold · Arms and Armor

Helmets fitted with masklike visors were a popular German and Austrian fashion about 1510 to 1540. With their visors forged and embossed as humorous or grotesque human masks, such helmets were often worn in tournaments held during the exuberant pre-Lenten (Shrovetide) festivals, celebrations somewhat akin to the modern Mardi Gras. Substitute visors of more conventional type were often provided for everyday use.

Artist

Kolman Helmschmid

Date

ca. 1515

Medium

Steel, gold

Culture

German, Augsburg

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1904