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Originally Posted by Conogre
plate 26, page 35 of Spring's "African Arms and Armor" shows a helm with similar patterns and the very heavy padded coife worn underneath that even has a set of western cutlery (forks and spoons) attached, from Darfur, late 19th century.
While the metal composition isn't specifically listed, I wouldn't be surprised if both were utilized, with the copper made even more battle worthy when added to the padding underneath.
Mike
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whilst i dont doubt springs knowledge on african armour, he has neglected to mention to true origins of the helmet he showed in his book. the bowl is ottoman, and of the late 15thC. he does, in his defence, mention this happening in his text, but describes this helmet as 19thC. it is of steel (unlike ricks), and the padding and 'cutlery' are added on when adapted (i assume 19thC as he states). it is one of my favourite helmets, just for the ludicrous look and sheer genius decoration. for scant memory (from a previous discussion), i believe the mail is butted and so would denote a local manafacture.
ricks helmet is very interesting, and i believe it dated from the same period as the 'cutlery' additions in the BM helmet.
whist its widely assumed 'heavy armour' denotes an early ages, it was worn in the sudanese wars as late as the first years of the 20thC. africa is outside my sphere, but the pitt rivers museum hold a full set of armour (shirt and helmet) that was taken off a body during these wars. the shirt (from memory) is old (centuries earlier) butthe helmet was of crude, local manafucture but held the antiquated shape, with sliding nasal bar and camail. i do have an image which i will try and find.