Foot-Combat Helm of Sir Giles Capel (1485–1556)

Foot-Combat Helm of Sir Giles Capel (1485–1556)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This helm, or “great bascinet,” for the tournament fought on foot, formerly hung above the tomb of Sir Giles Capel (1485–1556) in Rayne Church, Essex, as specified in his will that this, his “beste helmett,” and his sword be placed there. Sir Giles was part of the retinue of Henry VIII that challenged all comers during the tournaments held at the Field of Cloth of Gold, the famous summit meeting between England and France at Calais in 1520. Sir Giles may have worn this helm on that occasion. It is arguably the finest of its kind to survive from that period.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Foot-Combat Helm of Sir Giles Capel (1485–1556)Foot-Combat Helm of Sir Giles Capel (1485–1556)Foot-Combat Helm of Sir Giles Capel (1485–1556)Foot-Combat Helm of Sir Giles Capel (1485–1556)Foot-Combat Helm of Sir Giles Capel (1485–1556)

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.