Skip to main content
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Close Helmet
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Image © Worcester Art Museum, all rights reserved.

Close Helmet

Culture
Date1505–1510
Mediumsteel
Dimensions29 × 29 × 33 cm (11 7/16 × 11 7/16 × 13 in.), 5 lb (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.1114
DescriptionSkull rounded, fluting extending nearly full length from brow to nape. Visor/bevor pivoted at sides on plain domed heads. Right side of visor fitted with simple lifting-peg. 1-piece skull. 2 pairs of lacing holes at the brain-pan flanking the comb; 2 more pairs at the back of the head, further apart; 3 holes at the rear base of the comb. 2 empty rivet holes on each side around the neckline. 9 rivet holes around the face opening; the end one on the R is now occupied by the catch; the others on the R are plugged. There is a slight step above the brow in the face opening to align with the visor. 2 holes at the R ear, 1 of them plugged, possibly from a former securing mechanism. 1 hole in the comb near the apex. There is a pair of holes in the center of the lowest nape lame.

The double lines in the roping of the comb matches that of the lower edge.
Label TextThe close helmet features a one-piece bevor (chin-guard), replacing the hinged cheekpieces of the earlier armet. The bevor and visor worked on a single pair of pivots at the temples.ProvenanceBought by JW Higgins on 30 September 1929 from the estate of Dr. Bashford Dean (Riverdale, NY), #34. Given to the Armory on December 15, 1931. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on view
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Northern Italian
portions 1500s, assembled and decorated in 1800s
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Northern Italian
1560–1570
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Northern Italian
about 1560–1570
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Italian
about 1580, modified early 1600s
Close Helmet for Field and Tournament
Northern Italian
about 1550–1570
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Southern German
1525–1530
Conservation Status: After Treatment
Southern German
about 1590
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Austrian
1550–1600, with 19th century restorations
Reference Image - Not for Reproduction
Northern German
1555–1560