Parade Helmet
by NEGROLI, Filippo, Steel and gold, height 24 cm
This superb example of Italian Renaissance sculpture in steel was made by Filippo Negroli, the leading master of embossed armour in the antique style. The embossed ornament of acanthus scrolls inhabited by putti is inspired by classical prototypes. The reclining mermaid forming the comb of the helmet holds the head of Medusa, whose stare was reputed to turn the onlooker into stone.