Art Institute of Chicago

Zischägge (Helmet)

Flemish

Date

1620/30

Medium

Steel, brass, leather, and silk

Culture

Flanders

Department

Applied Arts of Europe

Institution

Art Institute of Chicago

This helmet, known as a Zischägge in Germany or a lobster-tailed pot in England, was the principle headpiece for light cavalry. With its sliding nasal bar, brim, earflaps, and neck guard, the design offered protection from sword cuts with optimal peripheral vision. The design was adapted from Turkish helmets of the 16th century. The style spread to Hungary and Poland and by the mid-17th century was found throughout Europe. This Flemish example comes from the armory of a Spanish noble family.

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