Comb Morion
Culture
German
, Augsburg
Date1550–1600
Mediumiron, brass and leather
Dimensions28.6 × 21.6 × 33 cm (11 1/4 × 8 1/2 × 13 in.), 4 lb (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
MarkingsAugsburg fir-cone and "S" armorer's marks on brim front.
A brass tag marked E27 was preserved in the object file, probably its tag from the Eugen armory.
Red-painted "27." inside, evidently also a Hohenwerfen mark.
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.1096
DescriptionSome rosettes are missing. 1-piece construction, with high comb and skull. Modern brass plume-holder. Integral brim sharply downturned at mid-length, producing an almost "burgonet" look; bends in at ears. Base of skull fitted with sixteen lining rivets, of which eleven retain original brass rosettes. Two empty holes at rear of brim.Label TextThe morion seems to have evolved from the earlier "war-hat", and the later Spanish "capacete". By the late 16th century, it was one of the most popular helmet types in use throughout western Europe. It was light, gave adequate protection, and provided both good ventilation and vision.ProvenanceArchduke Eugen's Armory, Fortress Hohenwerfen, Salzburg, Austria purchased by John W. Higgins on March 2, 1927 from Anderson Galleries (NY), their # 432. Given to the Museum on July 1. 1954. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
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