Sallet
Culture
Italian
, perhaps Milan
Date1450–1499
MediumSteel
Dimensions18.4 × 20.3 × 28.9 cm (7 1/4 × 8 × 11 3/8 in.), 2 lb, 8 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.1077
DescriptionOne-piece hemispherical skull of moderate depth. With low keel-like comb extending nearly full length. A deep reinforce of near-uniform depth is riveted at the temples and extends band-like across the brow. It rises slightly to a low point at the anterior base of the comb, and is inwardly turned on its basal edge. On the right side, partly obscured by the rear vertical edge of the reinforce, is a rivet and a fragment of metal. This is presumed to be a remnant of the original nape defense. That now fitted is comtemporary, but associated. It is much like those found on a number of Italian sallets and visored sallets of circa 1500. It was probably added by Bachereau as were the patched repairs. It consists of a single plate shaped to the basal rear of the skull, and from its vertical sides, flares out over the back of the neck. The basal edge is also inwardly turned.Label TextBy the late Middle Ages, plate armor was become increasingly common on the battlefield. This helmet was worn by a footsoldier; heavier versions, with added protection for the face and throat, were worn by knights. This particular example was left behind on the island of Rhodes by the Knights of St. John (Hospitalers) when they were driven off the island by the Turkish Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent in 1522.Provenanceex-Rhodes Dr. Bashford Dean Purchased from Dean's estate by John W. Higgins on 28 September 1929, as #80. Given to the Museum on December 15, 1931. See HAM#928.11 Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
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