Burgonet 1515 - 1575

This is a Burgonet helmet, made by Kunz Lochner in mid-16th century Germany. Crafted from steel, the helmet is intricately decorated with etched designs. The Burgonet was a popular choice for cavalry officers and other high-ranking soldiers. It offered good protection while allowing for relatively unencumbered vision and movement. Helmets such as this one, were not only functional but also statements of wealth and status. The etched decorations, often featuring mythological scenes or heraldic symbols, would have been custom-made for their owners. The presence of fantastical creatures such as mermaids and complex vegetal ornamentation speaks to the cultural interests of the elite. The armour trade in 16th-century Germany was a highly competitive industry, with workshops like Lochner's vying for the patronage of wealthy clients. Surviving pieces like this Burgonet allow us to understand the fusion of martial culture, artistic skill, and social display in the Renaissance. Looking at inventories, pattern books, and other historical records can tell us more about the making and meaning of these objects.