Sallet
ca. 1510–20
Medium
Steel
Dimensions
H. without crest, 11 1/2 in. (29.2 cm); W. 7 5/8 in. (19.4 cm); D. 10 1/2 in. (26.7 cm); Wt. 4 lb. 3 oz. (1899 g)
Classification
Helmets
Culture
Italian
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1911
Accession Number
11.89.5
Art Historical Context
Step into the world of Renaissance warfare with this exquisite *Sallet*, crafted around 1510–20 by the renowned Milanese armorer Pietro da Castello. This steel helmet, a pinnacle of Italian arms craftsmanship, exemplifies the transition from medieval to early modern armor. Sallets were favored by infantry and light cavalry for their balance of protection and mobility, featuring an open face, a protective tail at the back, and often a crest (here absent). At just 4 pounds 3 ounces, its lightweight design—measuring 11½ inches high, 7⅝ inches wide, and 10½ inches deep—allowed wearers to fight agi...