Bulletproof Target (shield)

Culture German , perhaps Nuremberg

Date1600–1610

Mediumiron, brass, modern leather

Dimensions57.2 × 11.4 cm, 288 oz (22 1/2 × 4 1/2 in., 18 lb.), 18 lb (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Markings2 paper tags

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.116

DescriptionTarget of proof. Flared conical spike riveted at center. Shield slightly outturned around perimeter. Rivets around the perimeter retain traces of brass rosettes on outside; inside they retain traces of the lining leather inside their washers. 4 pairs of rivets for arm-straps; the present straps are restored.
Label TextThis extremely heavy shield was designed to resist bullets, as demonstrated by the "proof mark," an indent left by a bullet used to test it. ProvenancePurchased by Museum on June 5, 1930 from Ernst Schmidt, Germany. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

On View

Not on view

Collections