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 of a helm (vol. ii, chapter xiii, pp. 150 et seqq.), being of a quite rigid type of construction, the front and back parts opening for purposes of adjustment by means of screw rivets. At the back of the skull-piece is a grotesque monster embossed, engraved, and gilt; while on either side are series of eight aiglette holes, each with brass borders, for the leather thongs used to secure the coif lining. Both these helmets date between 1538 and 1543.

German, 1545-60. Collection: Mr. S. J. Whawell

(a) With the escuffa in position     (b) With the escuffa removed

In these same armouries there can also be seen those curious reinforcing plates which could be attached to helmets for the purpose of affording additional defence. When these parts were added for tilting purposes they took the form of small plates for the extra protection of the visor, of the mezeil, of the gorget, and of the very skull-piece itself, the whole forming that curious reinforcing piece known in Spain as the escuffa. To illustrate this defensive plate we choose from the collection of Mr. Felix Joubert a very splendid specimen (Fig. 1207)—the work of Koloman Kolman of Augsburg—made for and stolen from one of the fine Charles V harnesses in the Madrid Armoury, and another in a different form,