Robert the Bruce helmet, medieval bascineto with aventail, 1.6 mm steel
The bascinet appeared in the early fourteenth century. It evolved from the so-called cervelliere or secret helmet (a simple cranial cap) and remained a popular helmet until the 15th century throughout Central Europe.
The medieval bascinet we offer here is based on the helmet seen on the famous bronze statue of Robert I of Scotland (1274-1329) in Bannockburn. In 1314, after years of campaigning against the English crown, King Robert (commonly known as Robert the Bruce) defeated Edward II's army ofEngland at the Battle ofBannockburn, a decisive battle that eventually led to the restoration of Scottish independence. Like the legendary William Wallace, Robert the Bruce remains one of Scotland's most celebrated historical figures to date.