Codpiece

Culture German

Datemid 1500s

Mediumsteel

Dimensions15.2 × 12.1 × 7 cm (6 × 4 3/4 × 2 3/4 in.), 7 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.793

DescriptionSteel. Prominent, essentially curving penile form with rather bulbous terminal; shaped and embossed to imitate a puff-and-slash fabric codpiece. Medial line with narrow, deep, recessed chevrony bands without decoration. Base drawn out in wide, flat flange, curving to tapering basal point. At top, flange has spring-loaded post.Label TextThe codpiece provided protection for the groin. It was only worn when fighting on foot, since it interfered with the saddle, and the saddle provided protection when on horseback. This example imitates fabric codpieces worn as part of civilian clothing, in the elaborate "puff-and-slash" style fashionable at the time.ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins on September 28, 1929 from Estate of Dr. Bashford Dean (Riverdale, NY). Given to the Museum on December 15, 1931.
Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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