Burgonet

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Burgonet at the Met

Burgonet is a type of helmet that was popular among European armour during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. The design of the burgonet was a compromise between the need for protection and the desire for visibility and comfort. It typically featured a high crest, a brim that projected forward over the forehead, and hinged cheek pieces which could be opened. The back of the helmet often extended down to protect the neck, in a feature known as a 'tail'. The burgonet was lighter and offered better visibility than earlier helmets like the close helmet, making it favored by cavalry and infantry alike for its practicality in battle.

Design and Features

The burgonet was distinguished by its open face, which allowed for better visibility and ventilation. The helmet's skull was usually crafted from a single piece of metal, which was then shaped and hammered to fit the wearer's head. The cheek pieces were attached by hinges, allowing the wearer to put on and remove the helmet easily. Some burgonets also featured a visor, which could be lifted or removed. The visor was often designed with slits for the eyes and holes for breathing. The helmet's brim protected the wearer from downward blows and sunlight.

Variants

Several variants of the burgonet emerged over time, reflecting the evolving needs of soldiers and advancements in armour technology. The black burgonet was a version that was treated to have a blackened finish, which provided some resistance to rust and gave it a distinctive appearance. The Savoyard burgonet, named after the Savoy region, was known for its elegant design and often featured elaborate decorations, making it popular among the nobility.

Usage

The burgonet was widely used by various military units, including the cavalry, infantry, and even some artillery units. Its popularity was due to its balance between protection and comfort, making it suitable for both mounted and foot soldiers. The helmet was part of a larger suit of armour, which could include a breastplate, backplate, gauntlets, and greaves, depending on the wearer's role and the level of protection required.

Decline

As firearms became more prevalent on the battlefield, the effectiveness of traditional armour, including helmets like the burgonet, began to wane. The development of more powerful firearms and artillery made heavy armour impractical for most soldiers. By the mid-17th century, the use of the burgonet and similar types of armour had significantly declined, giving way to lighter and more flexible forms of protection.

Legacy

The burgonet remains an iconic piece of Renaissance armour, symbolizing the era's advancements in military technology and the artistry involved in armour production. Today, burgonets are highly prized by collectors and museums, and they are often featured in historical reenactments and films to evoke the period accurately.