THE HELM OF THE XVth CENTURY
in such a manner that the ends hung free. Just above the temples on both sides were placed small cushions filled with cow-hair (Fig. 476). Before the heavy helm was put on and fastened, the quilted cap had first to be adjusted and carefully bound and buckled. Every precaution was taken to ensure that no uncomfortable folds were formed, that the cap was not moved out of the right position, and particularly that the small cushions referred to above exactly covered the temples. Then, the straps and leather lacing which were left hanging free from the padded cap, were, when the helm was finally placed on the head, laced through the various apertures in the head-piece, and fastened on the outside so that the head was exactly in the centre of the helm and lashed there by the even pull of the straps and thongs in every direction; much in the same manner as a delicate piece of glass or porcelain is secured in a wooden case by experienced packers for transit. The helm was then fixed on to the body armour at the front and back by means of easily movable screws and an arrangement of staples, the details of which we have referred to, and which are to be seen on all complete helms and tilting sets. From this it will easily be realized on how many small and complicated details depended the equipment of a tilter, and how indispensable were the services of a skilled armourer and dresser. It must also be borne in mind that there was no less difficulty in properly adjusting the horse equipment. To explain in words the elaboration of the final fastening of the inside cap to the helm and of the latter to the breastplate is a difficult matter; but we call to our assistance the splendid drawing made by Albrecht Dürer in 1514, now in the royal collection, Berlin, the most valuable pictorial evidence available (Fig. 477).
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Fig. 476. Quilted tournament cap
Early XVIth century. Imperial Armoury, Vienna
Before describing the final form of the tilting or fighting helm, after which its development into the armet or ordinary close helmet seems but a step, we will take note of a family of helms which of late years has been recognized as being of English workmanship and fashion, and which are illustrated in the famous tournament roll in the College of Arms, London. This roll is "A Description of the Solemn Justs held at Westminster the
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