Great Helm with Brass Cross - 13th Century 1.5mm Steel

Great Helm with Brass Cross - 13th Century 1.5mm Steel

Symbol of the Knightly Era

This Great Helm boasts all the characteristic features of its period. It has the typical, almost cylindrical shape with a flat top, providing comprehensive protection for the entire head and face. Narrow eye slits (visors) ensured protection for the eyes, while rows of ventilation holes (breaths) in the lower section allowed for breathing. The front is dominated by a large, riveted cross made of pure brass, which not only decorated but could also reinforce the structure. The helmet's appearance is inspired by surviving sources and depictions from the 13th century, such as the famous Maciejowski Bible.

Handmade and Solid Construction

The helmet is handmade from sturdy 1.5 mm (16 gauge) mild steel, making it fully functional and ready to face the rigours of (simulated) battle. It features a polished finish, giving it an authentic sheen. Inside, there is a padded liner that excellently absorbs shocks, ensures comfortable wear, and helps keep the eye slits correctly aligned. A durable chin strap with a brass buckle secures the helmet firmly on the head.

Maximum Protection for Knights

The Great Helm was designed for maximum protection in close combat and against projectiles. Its enclosed design covered the entire head and neck (often worn over a mail coif). With a generous internal circumference of approx. 72 cm (without liner) / 69 cm (with liner), the helmet fits most head sizes.

Who Used This Helmet and When?

Great Helms were the typical headgear of European knights and heavily armoured warriors, primarily in the 13th century. They were an essential part of armour during the high and later Crusades, in countless feudal wars, and also in knightly tournaments. Their era gradually ended around the turn of the 13th to the 14th century, as more pointed helmet shapes (like the Sugarloaf helm) became popular for better deflecting blows.

How Can You Use It Today?

This Great Helm is perfect for:

• Reenactment: Portraying a knight or man-at-arms from the 13th century and the Crusades.
• LARP: Ideal for characters such as paladins, holy warriors, knights, or other heavily armoured figures.
• Collecting: A key piece for any collection of medieval armour.
• Decoration and Display: An imposing and historically significant decorative element.
• Film and Theatre: An authentic-looking prop for medieval scenes.

An Interesting Historical Fact

Although the Great Helm offered excellent protection, it also had drawbacks. It significantly restricted the wearer's field of vision and hearing, and could quickly become unbearably hot in the summer sun. Knights often wore a smaller, lighter helmet (like a cervelliere) or a padded arming cap underneath, only donning the great helm just before battle or a charge. The brass cross was not merely a religious symbol; it also visually identified the wearer as a Christian warrior, particularly important during the Crusades, and could offer some structural reinforcement to the faceplate.

How to Care for Your Helmet

1. Oil: The helmet is coated in oil for transit. Simply wipe this off with a dry cloth or use an oil remover.
2. Dryness: Keeping the helmet dry is absolutely fundamental.
3. Conservation: After each use (even just display), wipe down the metal parts (steel and brass) with a cloth lightly impregnated with conservation oil (e.g., WD-40, Ballistol). Pay attention to rivets and seams.
4. Liner: Check the condition of the padding and chin strap. If leather components are present, treat them with a suitable leather conditioner.
5. Storage: Keep the helmet in a dry place, ideally stuffed with cloth or paper to absorb any potential moisture.

Don this Crusader Great Helm, the symbol of 13th-century chivalry, and become part of history. It's a robust, functional, and visually stunning piece of armour for your reenactment activities or collection!

A high-quality product made by Lord Of Battles®