Burguignot: brilliance and protection during the Renaissance

Burguignot, or burgonet, takes pride of place among European helmets of the Renaissance. The name of this helmet comes from the French word “bourguignotte”, which translates as “Burgundy helmet”. This type of helmet, widespread from the late 15th to the mid-16th centuries, combined not only functionality in combat conditions, but also an exquisite design.

Bourguignot evolved against the backdrop of changing demands in military equipment and artistic preferences. It evolved from earlier forms of helmets. This type of helmet first appeared in Italy, and then quickly began to spread throughout Europe.

The burgonet had a rounded body strongly elongated back, with a rigid or movable butt plate. The front was equipped with a visor pointing upward. The pointed top and nose provided additional protection for important parts of the head without compromising visibility or breathing. The hinged top made it easy to remove the helmet.

Often the design included decorations and engravings, making it not only effective in combat but also aesthetically pleasing. For example, the top of the helmet could be supplemented with a crest; in early versions there were three of them.

Burguignots were used in various military conflicts, and their design sometimes emphasized membership in a particular knightly order or army. These helmets were an important element of equipment for warriors who participated in military campaigns and knightly tournaments.

Today, such protections serve as inspiration for reenactors and artists seeking to recreate the atmosphere of the Renaissance. Their exquisite design and effective protection make bourguignottes not only historically significant artifacts, but also amazing works of art.

This type of helmet embodies the combination of practicality and aesthetics characteristic of the turning point in European history, between the Middle Ages and the Modern Age.

Source: metmuseum.org