Portions of a Jousting Helmet

Discussion

FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

The manufacture of armor was a highly complex task requiring great skill and expertise. The visor and bevor were part of the armor worn in the joust, a type of sporting combat fought between pairs of mounted contestants who tried to unhorse each other using lances. The visor was a movable plate attached to the helmet to protect the face, while the bevor was used to shield the chin and upper throat. Here the right side of the bevor is fitted with a small door that could be opened by the wearer for additional ventilation between jousts. Although designed primarily with protection in mind, the pieces are also decorated with etched and gilt motifs of figures and foliate strapwork. The etching invites comparison with prints of the period.

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