HELMETS IN HERALDRY
The HELMET, helme, casque, or morion, varied in shape in
different ages and countries. The most ancient form is the simplest, composed of iron, of
a shape fitted to the head, and flat upon the top, with an aperture for the light. This is
styled the Norman Helmet, and appears on very old seals, attached to the Gorget, a
separate piece of armour which covered the neck. In the twelfth century, a change was made
to mark the rank of the individual bearer.
Each of these Helmets is placed immediately above the escutcheon, and supports the wreath
on which is the crest.
The Helmet assigned to Kings and Princes of the Blood Royal, is full-faced, composed of gold, with the beauvoir divided by six projecting bars, and lined with crimson. | |
The Helmet of the Nobility is of steel, with five bars of gold: it is placed on the shield inclining to a profile. | |
The Helmet of Knights and Baronets, is the full-faced steel helmet, with the visor thrown back, and without bars. | |
The Helmet of Esquires, always depicted in profile, is of steel, with the visor closed. |
The are more types of helms, such as:
* Abc of heraldry
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