The Burgonet

The burgonet is a light weight, open-faced helmet developed in Burgundy, a region of France, and worn most extensively in 16th century Europe. It was used chiefly by cavalry soldiers as a substitute for the heavier close-helms and armets. Burgonets generally consisted of a peaked-brow, upright combed skull, and hinged ear pieces. In some instances a Panache (plume holder) was attached to the base of the helmet. The face could be enclosed by adding a falling buffe (chin/neck protection, usually incorporating a gorget). The best examples of craftsmanship are burgonets in which the helm and comb were forged of a single piece of metal. The burgonet shared many of the same features as the casque; the two are often confused with one another.

   An interesting note:  the term "to be crestfallen" derives from a type of medieval tournament in which each combatant attempted to knock the crest off the other's helmet.  The winner was the combatant left with his crest and helmet intact, the loser was "crestfallen."