Provenance: From a  large Romanian collection that started after WWII.

Discussion: Tombak or gilt copper was an innovation of the Ottoman artisan in the 16th century. It was used exclusively for ceremonies and parades since it was soft and would be of limited use for warfare. The objective of tombak was to give the illusion of gold. Imagine the visual effect of hundreds of soldiers marching in parade fashion wearing helmets that reflected gold.

Working copper is much simpler than iron and much faster to produce. The helmets were light and purposeful. Gilding is the process of applying a gold finish to metal, in this example, copper. A gilded (gold) finish attaches to metal when heated. For the gold to attach, it must become a paste solution with mercury, called amalgam. The amalgam is applied to the surface to be decorated and gently heated until the mercury evaporates, leaving the gold embedded in the metal.  Gilding is very dangerous. Inhaling mercury can lead to serious medical problems.  This is a complicated process that takes years to master and a deep, dark, secret technique of each master smith.

Description: Constructed in conical form from one sheet of copper alloy with pierced decoration of arabesque palmettes. A rim/rib at the bottom extends at the back for the attachment of neck defense lames. An inscription circumvents the base of the helmet (being translated), almost certainly a passage from the Koran. Finial and neck lames missing, height approximately nine inches.

Conclusion: The original owner who commissioned this exceptionally elegant and intricate helmet must have been very wealthy! From the size, it could have been made for a young man or teenager. This is a rare item that could adorn any collection. Priced to sell immediately – don’t let a rarity such as this pass you by !!!*