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Italian, made between 1560-70, and supposed to have been worn by the Archduke Ferdinand of Tyrol. Imperial Armoury, Vienna

of the XVth century. This may perhaps be a head-piece that actually reproduces one of the many designs of the great Leonardo. Inasmuch as this casque is a national possession, and accessible to all, we feel justified in giving a detailed description of it. It dates from about 1540, and is forged in one piece and embossed from the interior, in some parts to a height of 2-1/4 inches, the work being executed throughout with the greatest possible spirit. The surface is patinated to a dark russet colour, and the ornamentation is disposed in the following fashion. Above the forehead is the upper portion of a grotesque face, with moustachios, strongly hooked nose, and small receding eyes, above which are the bushy eyebrows. From between the eyebrows springs an acanthus leaf ornament which is continued to the back of the comb of the helmet, to form the crest. An ear-like form is represented on either side of the skull, and behind it, below the rivets that