Late 16th century AD. A cabasset with keeled profile, flared rim with rolled edge, small spur to the apex of the keel; row of brass rosettes to the lower skull securing woven braid fabric band to the inner face; without cheek pieces, rim stamped with the arsenal mark of the Barberini family, a crowned heater shield with three bees. 3.9 kg, 20cm (8"). Ex Lincolnshire collection; acquired 1990s-2012. The Barberini family were suppliers of arms to the Papal armoury; Maffeo Barberini was created Pope Urban VIII in 1623 and his nephew, Taddeo, was made Prefect of Rome and Supreme Commander of the Papal Army. Urban VIII was the last pope to attempt expansion of the papal territory through military means and the arsenal mark indicates that the helmet once belonged to the the Papal armory which is now housed in the Vatican Historical Museum in the Lateran Palace, Rome. [No Reserve]

Fine condition, small brazed repairs at rim. Scarce.