Antique Leather Football Helmet and Stand c.1900
ABOUT
An original antique leather football helmet on wooden hat stand. The piece has retained its original finish and is in good condition with appropriate patina for its age.
- CREATOR Unknown.
- DATE OF MANUFACTURE c.1900-1920.
- MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUES Leather, Wood.
- CONDITION Good. Wear consistent with age and use.
- DIMENSIONS H 13 in. W 10 in. D 14 in., Base: 5 in. x 5 in.
HISTORY
One of the first instances of football headgear dates to 1896 when a college halfback began to use straps and earpieces to protect his ears. It is not certain who invented the football helmet.
One innovation from the early 1900s period was hardened leather. 1917 marked the first time helmets were raised above the head in an attempt to direct blows away from the top of the head. Ear flaps also had their downfall during this period as they had little ventilation and made it difficult for players to hear. The 1920s marked the first time that helmets were widely used in the sport of football.
