pot helm

A pot helm, also known as a barrel helm, was a type of helmet worn primarily in the 13th century. It was characterized by its cylindrical shape and flat top. This helmet evolved from earlier open-faced helmets with nasal guards.12

During the 12th century, the helmet's crown transitioned from pointed to flat, and the nasal guard expanded to cover the entire face, leaving only slits for vision and breathing holes. By the late 12th century, these helms were typically barrel-shaped, though more advanced designs with hinged visors also emerged. The pot helm was extremely heavy and placed significant weight on the wearer's neck, so it was usually donned just before combat.2