Page "Pickelhaube" Paragraph 13

All-metal versions of the Pickelhaube were worn mainly by cuirassiers, and often appear in portraits of high-ranking military and political figures ( such as Otto von Bismarck, pictured on this page ).

These helmets were sometimes referred to as lobster-tail helmets by allied forces due to their distinctive curved neck guard.

The design of these is based on the cavalry helmets in common use since the 16th century, but with some features taken from the leather helmets.

The version worn by the Prussian Gardes du Corps was of tombac ( copper and zinc alloy ) with silver mountings.

That worn by the cuirassiers of the line since 1842 was of polished steel with brass mountings,