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Western Europe
Back to Medieval Europe MapThe Medieval Ages covers more than 700 years, spanning from the 5th century to the 15th century in Europe. Throughout this period, armors were prominent because of the many wars and skirmishes in Europe. Armors were therefore constantly used by soldiers to defend themselves from weapons like the sword, arrows, axe, mace, or lance. As these weapons enhanced in quality, the armor must also improve in order to protect the wearer.
HELMETS |
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 Arms and Armour of the Crusading Era |
Origin: 1250s Weight: 2.26 kg During the mid 13th century, most helmets were designed to enclose the entire head for full protection, allowing only little vision. Great helms were usually made of plates riveted together. |
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Origin: 1375 Weight: 2.4-2.6 kg Although the Great Helms were in decline by the end of the 14th century, they still improved the Great Helm greatly. The Pembridge Helmets refers to sir Richard's Great Helm. The Great Helm had become conical and rounded at the top instead of flat. Also notice that holes were added near the mouth for making breathing easier. By this time the helm also became big enough to protect more of the neck |
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Origin: 1390 The Bascinet was introduced around early 1300s and coexisted with the Great Helm, but the Great Helm would eventually fall in favor by the end of 1300s. The picture shown on the left is an North Italian Bascinet from the "Wallace Collection." The most popular shape of a Bascinet is triangular shaped in which the top and nose were pointed. |
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Origin: 1400s The Jousting Helmet or Frog-faced Helmet is the last variation of the Great Helm in the Middles Ages. Unlike previous Great Helms, the Jousting helm extends to the shoulder and down. The top of the helm is curved down to the slits; intending to form a frog mouth shape. Unfortunately, this helmet was mostly used for jousting and not actual warfare. |
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Integrative Materials Design Center - Worcester Polytechnic Institute