Onion-shaped kettle hat with visor, late medieval, 1.6 mm

Product description

Beginning in the 15th century, kettle hats with a distinctly wide brim emerged in Germany, sometimes even featuring a visor - as in this example. This type of helmet was primarily worn within the Holy Roman Empire and often combined with a mail coif, collar or steel bevor. Due to its shape and visor, this kettle hat bears a strong resemblance to an early German sallet, a helmet type that in fact developed from it.

The helmet is made of 1.6 mm steel, with an onion-shaped crown and a rolled rim all around. The visor has two oval eye slits approximately 8 cm long. On the inside, the helmet is charred against corrosion and fitted with a riveted leather insert; an adjustable leather chin strap with brass buckle ensures a secure fit.

The sloping rim reduces the impact of blows and projectiles on head and helmet, making this type so effective that even nobles wore it. The helmet can be worn half on the head for optimal visibility or pulled down over the eyes, similar to the way a sallet is worn. This is suitable for re-enactment, living history, exhibition and collectors.