Fine Late 16th Century Continental European Close Helmet Circa 1590 Of Particularly Elegant Form

A Fine Late 16th Century Continental Close Helmet Circa 1590 Of Particularly Elegant Form.

The helmet weighing 5.6 pounds with two piece skull with beautifully roped medium high comb pierced with two holes on each side for suspending. The visor with well formed eye slits and sparrow beak form roped ensuite with the comb. The buff with ten breaths a side is original to the helm and the piercing most skillfully accomplished as the slits diminish in size from the beak. The two plate neck lames are articulated with finely roped edges and rivets that match those on the skull.

The helmet appears entirely homogenous and even sports its period plume holder. Areas of exfoliation and delamination are well in evidence especially at the apex of the skull.

Condition is excellent with a lovely polished exterior with little corrosion. The interior showing great age and beautiful untouched patination. The skull being made in two pieces permitted the master armorer a remarkable degree of smoothness in fashioning the halves obviating the usual rough marks from the hammer.

This is a truly elegant close helm homogenous in every respect.