Armet

Italian Armet (15c) by Wendelin Boeheim

Armet is a type of helmet that was developed in the 15th century, primarily in Italy and later adopted in other parts of Europe. It is distinguished by its unique design that fully encloses the head while being compact and offering extensive protection. The armet was a significant advancement in medieval armor and is closely associated with the knights and men-at-arms of the late Middle Ages.

Design and Features

The armet consists of four main parts: the skull, two cheek pieces which hinge or slide to open and close from the sides, and a visor. The helmet's design allows for a close fit to the wearer's head, which, combined with its rounded shape, was effective at deflecting blows. The cheek pieces would lock together at the front, often securing under the chin with a hook and eyelet or a small lock, providing excellent protection for the face and jaw.

One of the distinctive features of the armet is its visor, which was designed to meet the lower edge of the helmet when closed, creating a seal that protected the face from weapons and reduced the risk of penetration by arrows or other projectiles. Some versions included a bevor, which protected the throat and the front of the neck.

Evolution and Variants

The armet evolved over the 15th and 16th centuries, with variations in design reflecting regional preferences and advancements in weaponry and armor technology. Early versions were simpler and had narrower eye slits, while later models featured wider visors to improve visibility. The Italian armet, often considered the archetype, was sleek and fitted closely to the head, while the German variant, known as the "Maximilian" armet, featured fluting and other decorative elements that were popular in German armor of the period.

Usage

The armet was primarily used by cavalry and knights, as its compact design did not impede movement and offered excellent protection in close combat. It was part of the plate armor ensemble that protected the wearer from head to toe. The helmet's design allowed for better hearing and ventilation compared to earlier helmets, which was crucial during combat.

Decline

The use of the armet declined in the late 16th century as firearms became more prevalent on the battlefield. The increased use of gunpowder weapons rendered the heavy plate armor obsolete, leading to the development of lighter, more flexible forms of protection. However, the armet remained a symbol of the knightly virtues and the age of chivalry.

Legacy

Today, armets are highly prized by collectors and historians as examples of the craftsmanship and artistry of medieval armorers. They are featured in museum collections around the world and are studied for their historical significance and technological innovation.