What is great helm?

The great helm, also known as the pot helm or heaume, is a type of helmet that was used in medieval combat. It was typically worn over a chain mail coif for added protection. The great helm covered the entire head and had a face plate with eye slits or a visor to allow the wearer to see and breathe.

Great helms were often decorated with crests or painted with the wearer's heraldic colors to denote their identity or allegiance on the battlefield. They were commonly worn by knights and men-at-arms during the 12th to 14th centuries in Europe.

The design of the great helm evolved over time, with later versions featuring a more conical shape and improved ventilation to prevent the wearer from overheating. Despite its imposing appearance, the great helm provided limited visibility and mobility, making it cumbersome to wear for extended periods of time.

Overall, the great helm was an important piece of protective gear for medieval warriors and played a key role in the development of armored combat techniques.