2038 HELMET – Antique Armor

2038) AN ELEGANT CLOSE HELM WITH DOUBLE BEVOR CIRCA 1580: Flemish or English.

A close helm is the single most desirable piece of armor. Many collectors do not have a full suit of armor in their collection. Instead, most collections are composed of individual armor parts. The two most sought-after are helmets and breastplates and in that order. Both helmets and breastplates protect the two most vital parts of the knight‚ body, the head and torso. Helmets (especially close helmets), in general, are more expensive than breastplates. Why helmets and breastplates are the most sought after: Helmets are the earliest form of body armor. Both aristocratic knights and simple infantrymen used them. Helmets are the most difficult item to make in a suit of armor. Because of their elegance, workmanship, and symbolism of power and chivalry, helmets are readily accepted by most as works of art, even by non-collectors

Discussion: The development of the double bevor close helm was from c1540 to as late as 1650. Eventually, the one bevor close helmet used in the early parts of the 16th century led to the development of the four-piece double bevor close helmet with both an upper bevor and a lower bevor (bevor proper). It still contained a visor and laminated neck plates. Most movable components are held in place by bolt pivots and pivoted hooks.

Conclusion: Yes, it has suffered a bit and is not in mint museum condition. This means it’s very reasonably priced for the average collector. A rare opportunity to own a highly collectible piece of armor that represents an important piece of Renaissance military history.