Armet with Mask Visor
German, Nuremberg or Austrian, Innsbruck
Not on view
Helmets fitted with masklike visors were a popular German fashion about 1510 to 1540. Visors forged as humorous or grotesque human masks were often worn in tournaments held during the exuberant pre-Lenten (Shrovetide) festivals, celebrations somewhat akin to modern Mardi Gras. The deep cuts on the left side of this example suggest that it was used in a mock battle, or tourney, fought by groups of horsemen armed with lances and swords. The helmet's powerful sculptural form, technical accomplishment, and imaginitive conception demonstrate the armorer's virtuosity.
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