Are you ready to step back in time and explore the fascinating world of knights and their armor? If so, let’s start with one of the most iconic pieces of their equipment – the helmet. But wait, what is a knight’s headgear exactly called? You might have heard of some names like bascinet, sallet, or great helm, but do you know the differences between them?
The helmet was a crucial part of a knight’s armor, not only for protection but also as a symbol of status and identity. Depending on the time period and location, different types of helmets were popularized and served specific purposes. For instance, the great helm, also known as the “crusader helm,” covered the entire head and face, providing maximum defense against heavy weapons but also limited vision and hearing. On the other hand, the bascinet, developed in the 14th century, had a more open design that allowed better ventilation and allowed for more flexibility in battle.
Today, the knight’s headgear remains an object of fascination and inspiration for many. From medieval reenactments to fantasy novels and movies, the image of a knight in shining armor with his helmet gleaming is a symbol of courage, chivalry, and adventure. So, whether you’re a history buff, a fan of fantasy literature, or just curious about the fascinating history of the knight’s armor, it’s time to dive deeper into the world of helmets and discover what it meant to be a true knight in the Middle Ages.
Types of Medieval Helmets
One of the most iconic features of the medieval knight was their helmet. The type of helmet a knight wore depended on their rank and the period in which they lived. Here are some of the most common types of helmets from the medieval period:
- Great Helm: Also known as the heaume, was a flat-topped helmet that covered the entire head and had eye and mouth holes. It was most popular in the 13th and 14th centuries and was worn over a smaller helmet called a cervelliere.
- Bascinet: This helmet was popular in the 14th and 15th centuries and fit snug around the head, covering the cheeks, jaw, and neck. It often featured a visor that could be raised or lowered.
- Barbute: This helmet originated in Italy and was popular in the 15th century. It had a T-shaped opening for the face and covered the cheeks and forehead.
These helmets were essential not just for protection, but also for displaying one’s status as a knight. Helmets often featured crests or insignias that adorned the top, signifying their allegiance to a noble house or kingdom. Knights often adorned their helmets with elaborate plumes or animal motifs.
Evolution of Helmets
As time progressed, so did the design of helmets. Armored knights began to use helmets that gave them better visibility and protection, like the sallet or the close helm. Additionally, the development of firearms during the late Middle Ages called for helmets that could protect the face and neck, leading to the design of the armet and the burgonet.
Materials Used
Most helmets were made of iron or steel, though some were constructed with bronze or brass. Helmets could be made in one piece or in sections that were later riveted together. Lesser knights or soldiers may have used cheaper helmets made of leather or boiled leather.
| Helm Type | Period | Materials Used |
|---|---|---|
| Great Helm | 13th-14th century | Iron, steel |
| Bascinet | 14th-15th century | Iron, steel |
| Barbute | 15th century | Iron, steel |
| Close Helm | late 14th-16th century | Iron, steel |
| Burgonet | 16th century | Iron, steel |
As armor and battle tactics evolved, so did the design of helmets. They became more specialized and effective at protecting the knight’s head and face, ultimately leading to the full-coverage helmets of later periods. Today, medieval helmets remain a symbol of an era of sword and shield, one of the most iconic images of ancient warfare.
Evolution of Knight Headgears
The medieval times were characterized by the clashes of knights in battles and jousts. These soldiers were known for their chivalry, courage, honor, and their gallantry. Their heavily armored appearance made a grand impression on the people and their enemies. Among the knight’s armors, their headgear was one of the most crucial parts of their protective gear.
The primary purpose of the knight’s headgear was to protect their head from the enemy’s weapon or projectiles, such as rocks, arrows, and spears. Hardware such as helmets, visors, and coifs were among the most commonly used in battles during that time.
- Great Helm
- Basinet Helm
- Bascinet with Visor
The evolution of the knight’s headgear progressed along with the evolution of the weapons they used. As weapons became more lethal, their headgears needed to adapt to protect the knight’s valuable face and neck. For example, the Great Helm, also known as The Crusader Helmet, was the earliest known form of headgear used by knights. It was introduced during the twelfth century and was designed as a massive enclosed helmet without any openings except for the eye-slots. This helmet offered better protection to the knight’s head as compared to earlier headgears.
The Basinet Helm marked the beginning of the fourteenth century, and it was an improvement of Great Helm. The Basinet Helm had incorporated a mail coif that covered the neck and some parts of the shoulder area. The French Hundred Years War knights adopted this helmet as their standard headgear.
The Bascinet Visor Helmet also known as the pig-faced helmet, became popular in the fifteenth century. It was a form of basinet helm that included a lengthy nose guard and small slit-like openings for the eyes. The visor would retract upward, allowing the knight to breathe better in between battles.
These helmets played a pivotal role in the evolution of warfare in Europe, and it’s a testament to the constant innovation and creativity of the medieval era’s military gear.
| Name of Headgear | Time of Use |
|---|---|
| Great Helm | 12th century |
| Basinet Helm | 14th century |
| Bascinet with Visor | 15th century |
Overall, during the medieval era, the evolution of the knight’s helmet went through a series of transitions, each significant in its innovation. The Great Helm, Basinet Helm, and Bascinet with Visor represent a critical chapter in the development of headgears in the medieval period.
Symbols and Decorations on Knight Helmets
Knight helmets, also known as helms or headgear, were an important part of a knight’s armor during the medieval ages. They not only provided protection but also served as a symbol of the wearer’s status and rank. Various symbols and decorations were added to helmets to showcase the knight’s achievements or allegiance to a particular order. In this article, we will discuss the symbols and decorations commonly found on knight helmets.
Types of Helmet Decorations
- Crests: A crest is a decorative piece that sits on top of the helmet. It was usually made of feathers, horsehair, or metal and displayed the wearer’s coat of arms. Crests were often used to identify knights on the battlefield and could be easily seen from a distance.
- Visor adornments: Many helmets had visors that could be raised or lowered. Some knights added adornments to the visor to show their rank or achievements. For example, a knight who had fought in the Crusades might add a cross to their visor.
- Engravings: Engravings were another common way to decorate helmets. Knights would often have their armor engraved with religious symbols, such as the cross, or with scenes from their battles or conquests.
Symbols and Their Meanings
Various symbols were added to knight helmets to represent different meanings. Here are some common symbols:
- The Cross: The cross was a symbol of Christianity and was often used by knights who had fought in the Crusades.
- The Fleur de Lis: The fleur de lis was a symbol of the French monarchy and was often used by French knights.
- The Lion: The lion was a symbol of strength and courage and was often used by knights who had displayed these qualities in battle.
Decorations on Famous Knight Helmets
One of the most famous knight helmets is the one worn by Sir Thomas Erpingham, a commander during the Battle of Agincourt. His helmet is decorated with a cross and is on display at the Royal Armouries in Leeds, England. Another famous helmet is the one worn by Henry VIII, which is adorned with a dragon on the top and a fleur de lis on the visor.
| Knight | Helmet Decoration |
|---|---|
| Sir Thomas Erpingham | Cross |
| Henry VIII | Dragon (top), Fleur de lis (visor) |
The decorations on knight helmets not only added to their aesthetic appeal but also provided a glimpse into the knight’s personality and achievements. They were an important part of a knight’s armor and stood as a symbol of their status and rank.
Components of a Knight’s Headgear
During the medieval period, the knights were warriors who were renowned for their bravery and skill in battle. Their armor was complex and specific for different parts of their body. One of the important elements of a knight’s armor is the headgear. The knight’s headgear was designed to protect their head from different types of weapons used in battle. In this article, we will discuss the different components of a knight’s headgear.
- Helmet: The helmet is the most important part of a knight’s headgear. It was designed to protect the head from any injury in combat. The helmet was made of iron or steel and was shaped in such a way that it would cover the entire head, except for the eyes, nose, and mouth. The helmet could be closed or open, depending on the preference of the knight.
- Visor: The visor was a movable part of the helmet that could be lifted up or down. It was used to protect the knight’s face without obstructing their vision. The visor was made of iron or steel and was hinged to the helmet.
- Bevor: The bevor is a piece of armor that was attached to the helmet and covered the lower part of the face, including the chin and neck. It was designed to protect the knight’s throat from any attacks.
- Coif: The coif was a piece of armor that covered the head and neck. It was made of chainmail or padded fabric and was worn under the helmet. The coif protected the head and neck from any attacks that could penetrate the helmet.
The following table provides some additional information about the different components of a knight’s headgear.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Helmet | Protects the head from any injury in combat. Can be open or closed. |
| Visor | A movable part of the helmet that protects the face without obstructing vision. Made of iron or steel. |
| Bevor | Attached to the helmet and covers the lower part of the face, including the chin and neck. Protects the throat from attacks. |
| Coif | Covers the head and neck. Made of chainmail or padded fabric. Worn under the helmet. Protects the head and neck from attacks. |
In conclusion, a knight’s headgear was an essential part of their armor. It was designed to protect their head and face from any injury in combat. There were different components that made up a knight’s headgear, including the helmet, visor, bevor, and coif. Each component played an important role in protecting the knight from any attack.
Famous Knight Helmets in History
Knight helmets were essential components of the medieval warrior’s battle gear, providing protection to the head and face. These helmets were also designed to intimidate enemies with their intimidating shapes and designs. Here are five of the most famous knight helmets in history:
- The Great Helm: This is perhaps the most iconic of all knight helmets, also known as the bucket helm. It was first used in the 11th century and consisted of a large steel dome that covered the entire head and neck. It was heavy and cumbersome, but it provided excellent protection.
- The Bascinet: This helmet was introduced in the 13th century and was designed to be more lightweight and comfortable than previous versions. It covered the head and neck but had an open face.
- The Barbute: Originating from Italy in the 15th century, this helmet had a unique design that covered the entire head and neck but left the face open. Its sleek design made it popular amongst knights and it was often paired with a visor for added protection.
- The Armet: This helmet was developed in the 14th century and was made from several pieces that could be taken apart for easier storage. It consisted of a steel cap to protect the skull, a hinged visor that could be raised and lowered, and cheek pieces to protect the face.
- The Sallet: This helmet was popular in the 15th century and originated from Germany. It had a distinctive shape that covered the back of the head and extended down to protect the chin and jaw. It often had a visor or bevor that could be lowered to protect the face.
Materials and Techniques Used in Crafting Knight Helmets
The materials used in crafting knight helmets varied depending on the time period and location. Earlier helmets were often made from boiled leather or horn, which were then reinforced with metal. Later helmets were made entirely of steel, either through casting or hammering.
The crafting techniques used to create these helmets varied as well. Some helmets were made from a single piece of metal, while others consisted of several pieces that were welded or riveted together. Finishing touches such as engravings, inlays, and brass accents were also added to make these helmets unique and personal to the wearer.
A Brief Overview of Knight Helmet Design
As armor design and technology advanced, so too did the design of knight helmets. From the large and cumbersome Great Helm to the sophisticated and elegant Sallet, the helmets evolved along with war tactics and technology. As helmets became lighter and more streamlined, they provided greater protection while also allowing knights to move more freely on the battlefield.
| Helmet Name | Time Period | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Great Helm | 11th-14th century | Large, steel dome that covered entire head and neck |
| Bascinet | 13th-14th century | Lightweight, covered head and neck but open face |
| Armet | 14th-16th century | Multiple pieces that could be taken apart, included hinged visor and cheek pieces |
| Barbute | 15th century | Covered entire head and neck, but open face, often paired with a visor |
| Sallet | 15th century | Covered back of head, extended down to chin and jaw, visor or bevor for face protection |
Even though these helmets are no longer in use by knights, they remain examples of masterful craftsmanship and timeless design that continue to inspire modern armor and helmet makers today.
Modern Replicas of Knight Helmets
The headgear worn by knights during medieval times was not just a fashion statement, but also served as a crucial component of their armor. The knight’s helmet, also known as a helm, was designed to protect their head from deadly blows during battles and jousts. The helmet was made of different materials such as iron, steel, brass, and bronze, making each piece unique and tailored to the knight’s status, rank, and personality.
While the medieval era ended centuries ago, the fascination with knights and their armor lives on. Modern-day replicas of knight helmets are available to collectors, history buffs, and enthusiasts. These replicas are made with painstaking attention to detail, using traditional crafting techniques and quality materials, making them an accurate representation of the helmets worn by knights of old.
- Early Medieval Helmets: Some of the earliest helmets worn by knights were simple and practical, with a nose guard for facial protection. Replicas of these helmets are now available and are typically made from brass or iron, portraying the original design and craftsmanship.
- Great Helms: These are the classic knight’s helmet design. They’re tall, pointed on the top, and cover almost the entire head and neck. Replicas of the great helm feature detailed engravings and embossments, making them aesthetically pleasing.
- Barbute Helmets: These helmets were mainly used in Italy during the 15th century. The barbute’s most distinctive feature is its T-shaped opening, which provides a wider field of vision than other helmets. Modern-day replicas of this helmet are popular among collectors, and some are known to be adorned with intricate designs and patterns.
Modern-day replicas are not just for display purposes; some enthusiasts wear them during reenactments and other knightly activities. These replicas are made to be sturdy and can withstand most impacts and rough handling. However, it is worth noting that although modern-day replicas could be made with the same materials as the originals, they might not be as durable as the originals due to the manufacturing processes.
| Helmet Design | Period | Materials | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Great Helm | 12th – 15th centuries | Steel or Iron | Pointed top, visor, engravings |
| Bascinet | 14th century | Steel or Iron | Pointed top, visor, hinged opening |
| Barbute | 15th – 16th centuries | Steel or Iron | T-shaped opening, nose guard, chin strap |
| Armet | 15th century | Steel or Iron | Fluted visor, hinged cheeckpieces, crest |
To conclude, modern replicas of knight helmets are an excellent way to appreciate the feats and heritage of these warriors. These helmets are crafted with traditional metalworking methods and quality materials, giving collectors and enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of history.
How to Choose the Right Knight Helmet Size
Choosing the right size knight helmet is crucial for both comfort and protection. A poorly fitting helmet can not only be uncomfortable but can also compromise the protection it provides. Here are some tips to help you choose the right size helmet.
- Measure your head circumference: The first step in choosing the right size helmet is to measure your head circumference. Use a soft measuring tape and measure around the widest part of your head, which is typically just above your eyebrows.
- Consult the size chart: Once you have your head circumference measurement, consult the size chart for the specific helmet you are interested in. Different helmet brands and models may have slightly different sizing, so be sure to consult the size chart for each individual helmet.
- Consider the helmet shape: In addition to size, it is also important to consider the shape of the helmet. Some helmets are designed for a rounder head shape, while others are better suited for an elongated shape. Make sure to choose a helmet shape that is compatible with your head shape to ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
While measuring your head and consulting a size chart are important steps in choosing the right size helmet, it is also important to try the helmet on before purchasing. This will give you an opportunity to ensure the helmet fits securely and comfortably, and also allows you to make any necessary adjustments to the helmet’s straps or padding. Remember: a well-fitting helmet is an essential piece of protective gear for any knight.
In the table below, is a general guideline of the head circumference measurements based on helmet size.
| Helmet Size | Head Circumference (in inches) |
|---|---|
| Small | 21-22 |
| Medium | 22-23 |
| Large | 23-24 |
| X-Large | 24-25 |
By following these tips and consulting the size chart and helmet shape, you can ensure that you select the right size helmet for your head to both protect and also guarantee a comfortable and enjoyable experience as a knight.
What is a Knights Headgear Called?
Q: What is a knight’s headgear called?
A: A knight’s headgear is called a helmet. It is a type of protective gear worn on the head during battle.
Q: What were knights’ helmets made of?
A: Knights’ helmets were typically made of metal, such as steel or iron. They were designed to protect the knight’s head and face from injury during combat.
Q: Did all knights wear helmets?
A: Yes, helmets were an important piece of armor for knights. They provided crucial protection during melee combat and jousting tournaments.
Q: What were the different types of knight helmets?
A: There were many different types of knight helmets, including the great helm, bascinet, and sallet. Each had its own unique design and offered different levels of protection.
Q: How heavy were knight helmets?
A: Knight helmets varied in weight depending on the material they were made from and the style of the helmet. They could weigh anywhere from a few pounds to over 20 pounds.
Q: Were knight helmets uncomfortable to wear?
A: Knight helmets were designed to be as comfortable as possible, with padding on the inside to cushion the head and reduce the weight of the helmet.
Q: When did knights stop wearing helmets?
A: Knights continued to wear helmets until the introduction of firearms in the 16th century, when the metal of the helmet was no longer sufficient protection against bullets.
Thanks for Reading!
Now that you know what a knight’s headgear is called and some interesting facts about it, we hope you have a newfound appreciation for the importance of helmets in medieval times. Thanks for reading and we invite you to visit again soon for more fascinating historical facts!