A BARBUTA IN VENETIAN STYLE OF CIRCA 1430 - 1450

This Venetian style sallet's facial opening resembles a classic example of surviving barbuta. It is modelled with a Corinthian T shape opening with the crest re-curved and tail extending well back. In profile the cheek stays in line with the sight, dating its style to circa 1430 – 1450. However, the brass rivets suggest it is of later manufacture.

The opening widens marginally at the base and is defended all round by stop ribs of rectangular steel section riveted securely in place (one of which is fractured, but does not detract). There are two decorative brass rivets on either side to suspend the chin strap (only partly present). Small fragments of the internal leather band remain attached via a line of brass rivets all of which present. The helmet is approx. 2.2 kilos, and its measurements are:

Internal diameter is circa 69cm
Height externally is circa 28cm
Depth is also circa 28cm

The piece is marked at the nape of the neck with the famous Missaglia family of Milan used before 1452: the letters MY beneath a crown and below, struck twice, the letters GIS beneath a split-legged cross.

We found reference to the GIS mark in James G. Mann's "A Further Account of the Armour preserved in the Sanctuary of the Madonna dell Grazie near Mantua" (1938) where on p337 he describes the use of this particular mark on the backplate of the armour of Roberto di San Severino at Vienna which also had Missaglia connections.

The skull has several small dents as if “battle damaged” and an old repair on its left cheek along the rolled edge of the brim. This is a quality helmet, with some age to it and very authentic looking. It would grace any collection. It is our view that this is a nineteenth century reproduction made for a collector of means. More photos available on request.

Code: 53229