fabrication techniques of 15th/16th century helmets

This forum is designed to help us spread the knowledge of armouring.
Post Reply
Archie Zietman
Archive Member
Posts: 608
Joined: Wed Dec 29, 2004 8:51 am
Location: Salem, MA

fabrication techniques of 15th/16th century helmets

Post by Archie Zietman »

Hello!
I have a question: How were the extremely high crested helmets of the15th/16th centuries made? e.g. the helmet of George Clifford. I saw a helmet or 2 in Chicago which had been done in 2 pieces with the crest rolled, could they have used brazing? It would take some insane raising to do that.
Thanks!
Archie
Godzilla vs. Megalon (1973), where it was ruled in a 7-2 decision "Megalon's emission of lightning from his horn-like appendage did not constitute a violation of Godzilla's civil rights." (from the Majority opinion)
RalphS
Archive Member
Posts: 1302
Joined: Wed Mar 28, 2001 2:01 am
Location: Sweden / the Netherlands

Post by RalphS »

I've seen both techniques for the high-crested helmets, raised and rolled. I was told from a reliable source that the rolled ones were brazed, but I don't know if this was always done. Normally it's pretty clear which technique was used.

Raising one of these helmets would take more time than a cervelliere, but I doubt it would be considered an insane amount of work compared to e.g. a barbute. Once you have the overall depth it's all pretty straightforward (I think, I've never tried a morion).
User avatar
Alcyoneus
Archive Member
Posts: 27097
Joined: Thu Aug 17, 2000 1:01 am
Location: Wichita, KS USA

Post by Alcyoneus »

In the latter portion of the 16th C, you do get helmets done in 2 pieces. This becomes more common as time goes on, esp. in the 17thC when they aren't making really good armor anyway. ;-)
My 10yo daughter says I'm pretty!

Squire to Jarl Asgeirr Gunnarson, Barony of Vatavia, Calontir
Post Reply