Journal Article

Does Size Matter? The Results of the Discussion about Ceremonial Headgear

Bogatyrev, Sergei Nikolaevich

2015

Overview

This paper summarizes the exchange about the helmet of Ivan the Terrible from the Livrustkammaren (Stockholm) and other Muscovite ceremonial headgear. Ceremonial helmets are multifunctional objects that require a multidisciplinary study. The main source about the early history of ceremonial headgear is the object itself because written sources are usually inventory lists with brief entries deprived of any context. An analysis of the Cap of Monomakh and written and visual sources about it indicates that the Cap was made of parts of two golden helmets, originating apparently from the golden armor of Dmitrii Donskoi. Golden helmets were typical of various cultures, including the court culture of Muslim rulers. Inscriptions on Islamic helmets are of a dynastic nature. Islamic rulers presented helmets as gifts to subordinated Christian princes. The helmet from Stockholm replicates the tradition of Islamic dynastic headgear. The size of the helmet from the Livrustkammaren is consistent with its use as dynastic headgear intended for the heir of the Muscovite throne. Its physical parameters, decor, and condition support the traditional attribution of the helmet. The observations of Swedish scholars about the manufacturing of the helmet for the minor Ivan the Terrible in Moscow remain valid.

• Publisher: Saint Petersburg State University, Department of History Periodicals
• Subject: Armor / Helmets / Islamic culture / Royalty / Slavic studies / Symbols