Templar Great Helm by Marto – Knight's Helmet with Brass Cross

Templar Great Helm by Marto – Knight's Helmet with Brass Cross

Description and Characteristics of the Templar Great Helm

This high-quality Great Helm, also known as a bucket helm or pot helm, is a typical example of head protection for knights of the High Middle Ages. Its robust construction provided maximum protection in battles and tournaments.

Appearance and Craftsmanship

The helmet features a characteristic cylindrical shape with a flat top, crafted from polished, silver-coloured steel. The dominant feature is a large, prominent Templar cross (a cross pattée) made of brass, meticulously riveted to the front of the helm. Two narrow horizontal eye slits (occularia) provide visibility. Smaller cross-shaped cutouts on the sides of the helmet offer ventilation while enhancing the period design. The construction is reinforced with visible rivets, underscoring its authentic appearance. The helmet's height is approximately 35cm.

Certificate of Quality from Marto of Toledo

Each of these Templar helmets comes from the exclusive "Historic Armours" collection by the esteemed manufacturer MARTO®, based in Toledo, Spain. For centuries, Toledo has been a globally recognized centre for the production of high-quality weapons and armour. The included certificate of quality and origin guarantees the authenticity and first-class craftsmanship of this product.

How Can You Use This Knight's Helmet?

This replica of a Templar Great Helm is not just a static display piece. Its uses are truly diverse:

• Reenactment and Historical Combat: Complete your knightly armour with a key element and impress audiences with its authenticity.
• LARP (Live Action Role Playing): Become an unmissable Knight Templar or Crusader.
• Collecting: Expand your collection of historical replicas with this exclusive piece from Marto.
• Decoration: An imposing addition to a study, club room, or any interior with a historical theme.
• Costumes and Theatre: Ideal for theatrical performances, film shoots, or themed events.

From the History of the Great Helm

The Great Helm represents a significant stage in the development of head protection for medieval warriors, especially heavy cavalry.

Evolution from Pot Helm to Great Helm

The Great Helm is generally considered a further development of the pot helm. The original pot helm was worn over a mail coif. Later, close-fitting iron skullcaps (cervellières or early bascinets) were also worn underneath, necessitating a more voluminous shape for the Great Helm to fit over this additional protection. The often initially flat top of pot helms gradually began to conform more to the shape of the skull, leading to the more robust and sometimes slightly conical forms of Great Helms.

Who Wore the Great Helm?

These massive helmets were typical for knights and heavy cavalry from the late 12th to the 14th century. They were used, for example, by Knights Templar and other participants in the Crusades. They provided excellent protection for the face and the entire head against slashing and thrusting attacks, as well as arrows.

A Bit of Terminology: Great Helm vs. Pot Helm

The terms "pot helm" (Topfhelm in German) and "great helm" (Kübelhelm in German, though this also means bucket helm) appeared in historical literature only in the 19th century, and a precise distinction between these two closely related helmet types can sometimes be difficult. Generally, from the second half of the 14th century, large cavalry helmets worn over an iron skullcap (bascinet) are usually referred to as great helms. The transitional phase between these two types begins around the end of the 13th century. However, proving the original combination of a surviving great helm with a specific skullcap worn underneath is nearly impossible today.

Product Specifications

• Type: Templar Great Helm (Bucket Helm / Pot Helm style)
• Manufacturer: MARTO®, "Historic Armours" collection
• Material: Polished steel, brass cross
• Height: approx. 35cm (approx. 13.8 inches)
• Size: Universal (full-size replica)
• Accessories: Certificate of Quality and Origin
• Manufacture: Handmade in Toledo, Spain

Caring for Your New Templar Helmet

To ensure your knight's helmet maintains its beauty and is protected from corrosion, give it a little care:

• Steel Parts: Regularly wipe with a dry cloth. For long-term preservation, you can lightly coat the steel parts with a conservation oil (e.g., WD-40, Ballistol, or another mineral or silicone oil). This will prevent rust.
• Brass Cross: Brass can develop a patina over time. If you prefer a shiny appearance, you can gently polish the cross with a polish specifically designed for brass. Be careful not to get polish on the steel parts.
• Storage: Store the helmet in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and sources of moisture. For long-term storage, you can wrap it in a breathable cloth.
• Helmet Interior: If you use the helmet for reenactment or LARP with an inner lining (not included), remove the lining after use and allow it to dry to prevent moisture build-up inside the helmet.

With proper care, this Templar helmet will bring you joy for many years, whether as part of your knightly panoply or as an admirable display piece.