bascinet helmet

A bascinet is a form of open-faced medieval military helmet. This exceptionally-well preserved example represents an important transitional stage in the design and development of European armour. It is known as a bascinet, because of its basin-like shape. This is one of only ten known surviving examples of this helmet form in the whole world.

The bascinet developed from a simple iron skullcap during the 14th century, with the addition of a more pointed crown. It also extended downwards at the back and sides for increased protection of the neck. This example has a particularly pronounced neck protection. A mail curtain (known as a camail) was often attached to the lower edge for fuller protection.

A hinged visor was generally added from c1330 to protect the face. During the 14th and 15th centuries, bascinets became the most commonly used helmets right across Europe, through the period of the Hundred Years War (1337-1453). Early in the 15th century, the design became more rounded and the camail was replaced by a metal gorget, developing into the ‘great bascinet’, which was then the standard form of helmet through to c1450.

The Norwich example is thought to have been made in England, probably between c1420-30, at the time of the reigns of King Henry V and King Henry VI. This was during the latter stages of the Hundred Years War when Joan of Arc (c1412-31) was fighting the English in France. It was in 1430 that she was captured by the English at Compiegne. She was burned at the stake at Rouen in 1431. The helmet thus illustrates not only the development of European armour at this time but relates to a specific point in English history during its struggle with France.