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

ca. 1510
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 371
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.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Foot-Combat Helm of Sir Giles Capel (1485–1556)
  • Date: ca. 1510
  • Culture: possibly British
  • Medium: Steel
  • Dimensions: H. 17 1/2 in. (44.4 cm); W. 11 1/4 in. (28.6 cm); D. 9 1/2 in. (24.1 cm); Wt. 13 lb. 8 oz. (6123 g)
  • Classification: Helmets
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1904
  • Object Number: 04.3.274
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

Audio

Cover Image for 4424. Foot Combat Helm of Sir Giles Capel

4424. Foot Combat Helm of Sir Giles Capel

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