Medieval Armouring with Graham Ashford

Learn how to make a mid-13th century helm as illustrated throughout the Morgan Bible. Using these illustrations and cathedral statues as source material, we will work together to recreate a completed helm each. You will learn techniques to hot and cold shape the metal and leave either rough from the hammer for waxing, or leave plain ready for painting.

This course is aimed at beginners or those with some basic metal working skills; introducing everyone to the skills required to size and make a 13th century Helmet seen throughout medieval illuminations such as the Morgan Bible.

The helmet you will be making was the product of an ever evolving response to the changing nature of 12th and 13th century warfare. Made from a series of overlapping, riveted plates with some simple shaping it is likely the first helmet that is instantly recognisable as medieval and was the jumping off point for many later iconic helmets. It offers the opportunity to make something truly historical and aesthetically wonderful that once represented the very pinnacle of science and military research.

There are no original versions of these helmets, so we will take a look at sculptures and artworks that depict these helmets, as well as the one made by the tutor. The course will teach you how to properly, shape, planish, clean and fix the plates creating a finished piece any 13th century knight would have been proud to call their own.

Depending upon your skill level, it is hoped that everyone will be able to finish one complete helmet. These helmets were often painted (according to illuminations) so they will be left rough from the hammer to be painted after the course, should you wish to.

To allow for the required skill for the course and to ensure that there is enough time left, some parts of the build involving hand tools like power shears and grinders may be done by the instructor.

All tools and materials are provided by the College.