Skip to main content
Advanced Search
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Closed Burgonet from the Armory of the Earl of Pembroke
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Image © Worcester Art Museum, all rights reserved.

Closed Burgonet from the Armory of the Earl of Pembroke

Culture
Date1625–1630
MediumSteel and iron
Dimensions30 × 22 × 23 cm (11 13/16 × 8 11/16 × 9 1/16 in.), 4 lb, 2 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.1090
DescriptionTwo-piece skull, some assymmetry in the execution.
Label TextArmor was transformative as well as protective. A fully armored horseman ceased to be a mere man in the eyes of onlookers. He was transformed into something superhuman by the added height and bulk, while the design of the armor could make him look heroic or menacing, or both. To modern eyes, the design of this helmet calls to mind some kind of science-fiction villain: even in the 1600s, this helmet was intended to give its wearer a threateningly inhuman look.ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins on April 21, 1931 from H. Furmage, London, Englnad. Given to the Museum on December 15, 1931. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on view