Jousting Helm (Stechhelm)
c. 1480
Medium
Steel, brass, and paint
Dimensions
44.5 × 31.8 × 40.6 cm (17 1/2 × 12 1/2 × 16 in.)
Classification
suit-helmet
Department
Applied Arts of Europe
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
111790
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
This heavy helm, weighing over 20 pounds, was completely impractical in battle but ideal for the joust. In order to be secured, the helm had a hinged steel strap that bolted to the front of the breastplate. Its deep, “frog-shaped” front, up to a half-inch thick, was designed to deflect a steel-headed lance. Inside was thick quilted padding with bands to secure the head from whiplash. The deep gouges around the throat and top of the helm bear witness to the force of the encounter.
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...