Lobster-Tail Burgonet (Zischägge)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The term Zischägge refers to a distinctive type of seventeenth-century helmet consisting of a hemispherical bowl, a brim with sliding nosepiece (nasal), cheekpieces, and a long laminated tail over the back of the neck. The German word is a corruption of the Turkish chichak, which refers to a similar helmet used throughout much of the Ottoman world. Unlike most Zischägge, which were relatively simple, this example has a finely fluted and ribbed bowl with a baluster finial at the top, and surfaces that are blued and gilt. It also has its original leather lining in the bowl, brim, tail, and cheekpieces.

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