"Maximilian" Style Close Helmet, adapted for use in the Gioco del Ponte

Dateabout 1520 with modern restorations

Mediumsteel

Dimensions29 × 27 × 32 cm (11 7/16 × 10 5/8 × 12 5/8 in.), 5 lb (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

MarkingsThe marks "G" and "P" on the top of the skull indicate that it was used for the Gioco del Ponte in Pisa, which may account for the missing visor, since Gioco helmets were fitted with barred visors designed specifically for the sport. The "A" incised onto the right cheek of the bevor is probably also a Gioco mark, and supports the notion that the skull and bevor go together.

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.1174.1

DescriptionConsists of 1-piece skull with extensive patching, 2 nape lames, bevor, and restored visor. Of relatively light steel. Top of skull has holes for mounting a crest.

Was once a nice piece, now with a restored visor which is poorly shaped and ill fitting. The skull and bevor have had heavy corrosion; they are heavily damaged and patched--the damage is heaviest in front, and probably reflects use in the Gioco del Ponte. There is a non-ferrous (lead?) repair to the comb to the rear of the apex. The patching is heavy and clumsy, done in multiple stages, at least some of which are likely to date to the object's working life. The L arm of the bevor has been patched at the pivot point with a large piece of steel, perhaps scavenged from another piece of armor.

The 2 neck-lames are probably restored, possibly with old metal to judge by the large crack in the lower one. The surface is artificially patinated throughout. There are notches on the R edge of the bevor, perhaps to receive a pivoted support. There are 2 pairs of lacing holes at the apex, and 1 above and 1 at each ear; there is 1 pair at the R side rear of the neck, but the corresponding holes on the L have evidently been lost due to damage and patching. The etched floral bands are a modern embellishment. There is an incised line running around the neck on the bevor under the chin.
ProvenanceClarence H. Mackay (d. 1939). Purchased by Museum on April 1, 1940 from Jacques Seligmann & Co. (NYC), agents for estate of Clarence H. Mackay, dealer's no. A-30/112. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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