Old Helm mystery...

[BSMStar]

Originally Posted by ariel

I am not sure it is genuine. Not because I am an expert on helmets, but simply because of purely technical issues.
First, the cross (supposedly designed to protect the face) appears to be fixed. Noseguards were supposed to be moveable to facilitate putting the helmet on and taking it off.
Second, the neck guard is vertical: exceedingly uncomfortable with prolonged wear and, especially, during the battle (try to keep you neck stiff for a long time!)
These two features would not be a major problem for re-enacting (town parade etc), but would make life hell in real battle ( well, war is hell, anyway...).

Hi Ariel,

Point well taken. I have not notice any problem in putting the helmet on or taken it off, the neck guard just goes to the bottom of the skull (if you look up, it hits the back of the neck and may come off, it is a bit top heavy anyway). You can look side to side easily enough.

I have been told helmets like this have been made in the 1700-1800’s to refill “armories” as display pieces. The oxides look old enough for that time period. I was hoping that someone would recognize the hallmark.

The dealer that I purchased this from 20 to 30 years ago had 4 of these that he said came from an estate in Malta. I knew him well enough to not have a reason to disbelieve him. I bought the best of the four.