Helm for Foot Combat

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

English armor of the early sixteenth century is extremely rare, and tournament armor even more so. This helm, also called a “great bascinet” in the sixteenth century, is one of only a few of its kind in existence today. It was made for use in a type of tournament that was fought between two fully armored men, on foot and equipped with pole axes, spears, swords, and daggers.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The principal goals of the Arms and Armor Department are to collect, preserve, research, publish, and exhibit distinguished examples representing the art of the armorer, swordsmith, and gunmaker. Arms and armor have been a vital part of virtually all cultures for thousands of years, pivotal not only in conquest and defense, but also in court pageantry and ceremonial events. Throughout time the best armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical capabilities of the society and period in which they were made, forming a unique aspect of both art history and material culture.

Metropolitan Museum of Art