Description

Summary: Helmet from the funerary armour of Sir Thomas Long (died 1508), which hung for many years above his tomb in Draycot Cerne Church, near Chippenham, Wiltshire.

Research results

A Post-Medieval reproduction of a jousting helmet, probably dating to c. AD 1675-1725. This formed part of a funerary achievement hung above the tomb of Sir Thomas Long (d. 1508), along with a pair of gauntlets and sword of similar date.

Detailed analysis and conservation of the helmet has been undertaken by Chris Dobson, formerly Master Armourer to the Royal Armouries, who suggests that this helmet was probably acquired as a replacement for an original which was likely sold to an antiques dealer in the 19th century. It is made from pieces cut from obsolete armour of post-Medieval armour of probable German manufacture, including a pikeman's gorget, and plates cut from breast and packplates.