Kettle Helmet with Bevor

Description

The kettle helmet with bevor, also known as a kettle hat or chapel-de-fer, is a type of medieval helmet that was popular in Europe during the late 14th and early 15th centuries. It is characterized by its distinctive shape, which resembles an upside-down kettle or a wide-brimmed hat. The bevor, a piece of armor that protected the lower face and neck, was often attached to the front of the helmet.

Here’s a brief history of the kettle helmet with bevor:

1. Origins: The kettle helmet with bevor evolved from earlier forms of head protection in the late 14th century. It was an improvement over earlier conical helmets like the cervelliere and bascinet, as it provided better protection for the face and neck.
2. Design: The kettle helmet typically featured a rounded or conical skull, a wide brim that extended outward to protect the wearer’s face from blows and projectiles, and a bevor that could be raised or lowered to cover the lower face and neck. The bevor was often attached to the helmet by hinges, allowing it to be flipped up when not in use.
3. Versatility: One of the key advantages of the kettle helmet with bevor was its versatility. Soldiers could wear it with the bevor down for maximum protection of the face and neck during combat, and they could flip it up for better visibility and ventilation when not in immediate danger.
4. Use in Warfare: Kettle helmets with bevor were commonly used by foot soldiers and infantrymen during the late medieval period, including the Hundred Years’ War (1337-1453) between England and France. They provided good protection against arrows, swords, and other weapons commonly used in battles of the time.