Close Helmet
Artist
Pompeo della Cesa
(Milan, about 1537–1610)
Dateabout 1590
Mediumsteel, iron, brass, silver, leather, and fabric
Dimensions31 × 22 × 26 cm (12 3/16 × 8 11/16 × 10 1/4 in.), 6 lb, 10 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.112.1
DescriptionClose helmet of four pieces, pivoted at temples. One-piece skull, medium comb, strongly roped with file marks. At base of skull is a tapering cylindrical brass plume holder. Nape defense of three articulated lames, with inwardly turned edges, rolled over a wire core. Helmet secured with a modern buckle and strap around base.Bevor with lightly angular chin, neck flange marked with accession number. Facial opening bordered with eight modern rosette, dome-headed brass rivets securing modern lining. Three frontal lames.
Upper bevor with slightly upturned upper edge, slightly projecting medial ridge. Modern pivots. Trapezoidal cut on proper right upper edge to accommodate ogival, faceted lifting peg on visor. Proper right face pierced with eight rectangular slots in an irregular pattern. Lower edge fitted with pierced lug to secure bevor pivot-hook.
Deep visor covering one half of skull. Medium comb, roped with thin, paired file marks. Single set of ocularia. Lower proper left edge of visor may have been cut down. Lifting peg may be associated, as forward of this are two punched holes, possibly for a securing device.
ProvenanceCollection of von Hobertstein-Duveen Brothers (NLT 1888) George Donaldson (ca. 1888-1900) George J. Gould (after 1900-1924) Duveen Brothers (1924-28). Purchased by John Higgins from Duveen Brothers 18 January 1928. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
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