Kettle hat

Clevelandart 1916.1565

Kettle hat or Chapel de Fer is a type of helmet used throughout Europe from the Middle Ages into the early 17th century. This helmet offered good protection for the head from downward blows and projectiles due to its wide, brimmed design, similar to a hat, hence the name. The kettle hat was particularly favored by infantry and archers, as the brim provided additional protection against the sun and rain, making it practical for long periods of outdoor activity in various weather conditions.

Design and Features

The kettle hat is characterized by its wide, brimmed edge that projects outward all around, resembling the shape of a kettle. This design feature was instrumental in deflecting blows from swords, maces, and other weapons away from the wearer's neck and shoulders. The helmet was typically made of iron or steel and was often worn over a padded coif or arming cap to improve comfort and absorb shock from impacts. Some versions included a movable visor for face protection, although the open design of the helmet provided better ventilation and visibility than many other contemporary helmets, such as the great helm.

Historical Use

The origins of the kettle hat can be traced back to the 12th century, and it remained in use until the 17th century. Its popularity spanned across various European countries, including England, France, Germany, and Italy. The kettle hat was particularly appreciated by foot soldiers and archers, as it allowed for better situational awareness and did not restrict hearing, which are critical factors in battlefield situations.

During the Crusades, the kettle hat was used by both European crusaders and their adversaries, demonstrating its widespread acceptance and utility. In the later medieval period, as plate armor became more prevalent among the heavy cavalry and knights, the kettle hat continued to be a common choice for the lighter equipped troops and non-noble combatants.

Decline and Legacy

The decline of the kettle hat began in the 16th century with the advent of more sophisticated forms of protective headgear, such as the morion and the cabasset, which offered similar levels of protection but with styles that matched the contemporary fashion. By the early 17th century, the kettle hat had largely fallen out of military use, although it remained a symbol of certain ranks and units in some European armies.

Today, the kettle hat is recognized as an iconic piece of medieval military equipment, often depicted in historical reenactments, films, and artwork. Its design influenced the development of later helmets and remains a subject of study for historians and enthusiasts of medieval warfare.

See Also

• Helmet
• Crusades
• Plate armor
• Infantry