Left Pauldron
Artist
Pompeo della Cesa
(Milan, about 1537–1610)
Dateabout 1600
Mediumsteel, iron, brass, silver, leather, and fabric
Dimensions19 × 32 × 31 cm (7 1/2 × 12 5/8 × 12 3/16 in.), 48 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
MarkingsThe entire armor is decorated with a diaper-like etched pattern, once gilt. The cartouches enclose one of three basic motifs: a Medusa head with intertwined serpents; a winged lightning bolt design reminiscent of that found on Roman "scuta"; a downturned barbed trident, mounted by a pair of intertwined dolphins. Each cartouche is formed as a layered centrally rounded arch, the borders of which are formed of a single helix motif between a pair of low-relief narrow lines. (The junctions of the cartouches are modeled as tri-petaled floral designs.) Bands of major borders are similarly treated, filled however with a variety of human, grotesque, classical, floral forms and military trophies. The well-worn gilding appears to be of later date. At the cusp of the decorative border, mid-upper breastplate is the figure of a classically armed warrior, astride the feet of which are the letters "PO---PEO", which appear to be another variant on the signature of Pompeo della Cesa (Chiesa).
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.112.11
DescriptionAsymmetrical, of seven lames each; rounded in appearance. Borders inwardly rolled over a wire, roped with single file marks. Uppermost lame fitted with a single buckle to secure pauldron to colletin strap. Medial edges of other lames with V-shaped nick. Lames articulate on central and anterior leathers, rivets and posterior sliding rivets. Terminal lame pierced with vertical, rectangular slot at medial ridge to secure to vambrace; also fitted with a modern leather strap and period buckle. Perimeter of pauldron proper fitted with modern pickadill-retaining, leather strap and brass rivets. Some patching present in both pauldrons.ProvenanceCollection of von Hobertstein-Duveen Brothers (NLT 1888) George Donaldson (ca. 1888-1900) George J. Gould (after 1900-1924) Duveen Brothers (1924-28). Purchased by John Higgins from Duveen Brothers 18 January 1928. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
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