Close-Helmet

ca. 1560
Not on view
The prow-like lower visor of this helmet is the most recognizable characteristic of a distinctive style that was made about the middle of the sixteenth century in either England or Flanders. This particular helmet is interesting because it was later adapted and reused as a funerary achievement, meaning that it was hung in a church above the tomb of a gentleman. Indicators of this are the painted decoration and the relatively crude spike, designed to hold a crest, piercing the comb at the top. Funerary helmets are rare, particularly outside the context of English churches.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Close-Helmet
  • Date: ca. 1560
  • Culture: British or Flemish
  • Medium: Steel, polychromy
  • Dimensions: H. 17 1/4 in. (43.8 cm); W. 9 7/8 in. (25.1 cm); D. 15 1/4 in. (38.7 cm); Wt. 4 lb. 15 oz. (2239 g)
  • Classification: Helmets
  • Credit Line: Purchase, Arthur Ochs Sulzberger Bequest, 2013
  • Object Number: 2013.624
  • 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.