2508

16TH CENTURY CABASSET.

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:500.00 USD Estimated At:1,000.00 - 2,000.00 USD
16TH CENTURY CABASSET.
This relic Spanish or Italian cabasset is typical of the style worn by the earliest armies in the New World. The iconic morion, though popularly identified with early Spanish explorers and conquistadors, was not in use as early as the conquest of Mexico or the conquest of the Incas in South America. Thirty to forty years later, it was widely used by the Spanish, but also common among foot soldiers of many European nationalities, including the English; the first English morions were issued during the reign of Edward VI. Low production costs aided its popularity and dissemination although officers and elite guards would have theirs elaborately engraved to display their wealth and status. The crest or comb on the top of the helmet was designed to strengthen it. Later versions also had cheek guards and even removable faceplates to protect the soldier from sword cuts. The morion's shape is derived from that of an older helmet, the Chapel de Fer, or "Kettle Hat." Other sources suggest it was based on Moorish armor and its name is derived from Moro, the Spanish word for Moor. In England this helmet (also known as the pikeman's pot) is associated with the New Model Army, one of the first professional militaries. It was worn by pikemen together with a breastplate and buff coat as they stood in phalanx-like pike and shot formations, protecting the flanks of the unarmored musketeers.Similar relics are known excavated near Jamestown. This riveted helmet worn by the common soldier of the 16th and 17th century is 9" tall lacking internal attachments. PROVENANCE: Bob Thebert Senior Collection. CONDITION: Sound and solid. Pitted and rusted throughout with good patina. 4-49695 JS217