An Etched German Burgonet Helmet

An Etched German Burgonet Helmet

Possible mid-16th century etched German burgonet helmet.

Helmet features a one piece construction with high comb, downturned peak, neck guard, and hinged cheek pieces with flanging. Dome, peak, neck guard, and cheek pieces all have rolled edges as well as molded and tapered bands etched with floral scroll and tendrils. Hardware includes riveted hinges and three brass rosettes to rivets on front of crown; a fourth rosette appears to be missing. Left side cheek piece rivets were replaced at some point with two flat head screws. Peak and neck guard both have two holes at points, possibly for buff hooks that may have been removed. Item does not appear to have any armorer marks. Attached to cheek piece is a sales tag from Sotheby's New York. Research showed that this helmet was item #253 in their European Works of Art sale #5321 on May 10, 1985.

This lot is located in Cincinnati.
Arms, Armor & Militaria Fair to good. Helmet has flaking to finish, pitting, oxidation, and scratching overall. Rolled edges show denting, cracking, and losses. As mentioned, the riveting on left side cheek piece was replaced with screws at some point. Peak appears slightly bent, with a crimp to left side.