Bevor

Artist workshops of Wolf and Peter von Speyer , or (Germany)

Artist Wolf Peppinghorn (Saxony, Germany)

Dateabout 1590–1600

MediumSteel, iron, leather, black paint and textile

Dimensions31 × 28 × 23 cm (12 3/16 × 11 × 9 1/16 in.), 5 lb, 5 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Markings"1911" (?) is scratched inside. But the workmanship of this component looks to be early, so this seems unlikely to date the manufacture of the bevor.

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.1154.18

Description(*Bevor) This is a formidable, well-made piece like the "Rennhut" to which it belongs. It is of full, rounded form with a medial ridge extending to the slightly pointed edge below. It is prow-like, with a defined chin, and is drawn down over the top of the breastplate to which it is secured via two vertical rows of three adjustment holes each.

The left side is plain and straight, while from about one-quarter of its height up, that of the right extends in a curved, angled flange to defend the shoulder. The top edge of this flange, and the curved rear edges of the defense are cut in a series of close-set deeply filed notches.

Across the face the upper edge is level, and is notched and slotted on the right for the visor-catch.

Riveted at the top of the medial line is the reinforced insert for passage of the "Rennhut" bolt. Below and to the right of this the bevor face has a large, cord-operated trap door for ventilation. A large, riveted patch on the bevor at the top of this shows a contemporary position change made or contemplated.

The bevor retains its quilted linen lining sewn to the lining-band retained by near-flush rivets. The lining is cut out for the trap door. This lining appears to be older than that of the helmet, possibly of the 1700s; it is discolored and worn, unlike that of the helmet.

The throat is encircled by lining-rivets and a pair of close-set incised lines. On the left side above this is a large, punched threaded hole for the bolt of the target or a reinforce for the "Freiturnier."

The silver bands here extend down the medial line, left side edge, right side flange, and along the top edge. Blueing is also visible underneath the paint.
ProvenanceDresden "Rüstkammer" Prince Ernst Heinrich of Saxony (to 1925) Clarence H. Mackay (Roslyn, L.I.) (his A-31). Purchased by the Armory on 27 July 1939 at Mackay sale, Christie's (London), lot 54 (with shaffron HAM# 2550). Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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