Right Greave and Sabaton

Artist Pompeo della Cesa (Milan, about 1537–1610)

Dateabout 1590, with restored sabaton

Mediumsteel, iron, brass, silver, leather, and fabric

Dimensions44.5 × 11.5 × 30 cm (17 1/2 × 4 1/2 × 11 13/16 in.), 3 lb, 4 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

Terms

Object number2014.112.10

DescriptionOf 3/4 form, hinged on outer face, secured with three spaced sets of buckles and straps. Plain upper forward edge of plate is fitted with a set of turning pins securing greave to poleyns. Originally worn with mail foot defenses (the holes of which are filled with rivets), the greaves have been modified by the addition of restored plate sabatons. The back plate inwardly rolled, plain upper edge tapers sharply to the inner side. Edges of both plates fitted with liner securing rivets.
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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