An Italian made Cabasset Helmet c. late 1500s

The Armour made and used by most of Europe in the 16th and 17th century was either made in Italy or Germany. These two countries were the biggest exporters of this equipment and swords, halberds, and other weapons. England did produce its own in the Tower of London, but it also sourced from the continent as did France. During the civil war the Parliamentary forces controlled the Tower Arsenal and the Royal forces had to source their weapons and armour off shore. Armour was used by the early colonial forces under Cabot, Champlain and others. This helmet style was a favorite and was common to forces that protected landing parties or the early settlements on the shore of the St Lawrence and James Town. Collectors can use their imagination when owning such a piece, if early colonial history interests you as a collector this is a classic piece of armour from the age.

The all steel helmet has no ear guards, it is a heavy ammunition weight in the classic shape of the cabesset form with the small fin on the crown of the shell. The rivets are all in place but one on the rear of the base of the shell. It does not detract from the display of this piece. There are still bits of the lining on the interior of the pot and the seam is welded and not obvious. The patina is a wonderful dark grey. The hole in the back of the brim is common feature to these helmets, thought to have a length of rope put through to carry on a long march off the scalp. A touch of the age of armour as it was phased out.

Code: 50500