Parade Helmet à l'Antique

ca. 1630
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 374
A reflection of the classical tradition in early Baroque France, this parade helmet was designed in imitation of ancient Roman examples. The tall arched comb was originally fitted with an elaborate feathered plume, and the colorful effect was heightened by the use of gold paint and gilt rivet heads. The padded lining, still intact, was once covered with pink silk. Undoubtedly created for a member of the court of Louis XIII (r. 1610–43), this wonderfully preserved helmet was probably intended for use in a mock joust or carousel.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Parade Helmet à l'Antique
  • Date: ca. 1630
  • Geography: probably Paris
  • Culture: French, probably Paris
  • Medium: Steel, copper alloy, paint, textile
  • Dimensions: H. 14 7/8 in. (37.6 cm); W. 8 1/2 in. (21.6 cm); D. 14 1/2 in. (36.8 cm); Wt. 4 lb. 8 oz. (2167 g)
  • Classification: Helmets
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Gift of William H. Riggs, by exchange, 1997
  • Object Number: 1997.341
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

More Artwork

Research Resources

The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.

To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.

Feedback

We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please complete and submit this form. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.