Fragment of a Scale Torso Armor
Cultureprobably
American
Datepossibly early 20th century
Mediumiron, leather and fabric
Dimensions51 × 48 cm (20 1/16 × 18 7/8 in.), 4 lb 12 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.815
DescriptionSleeveless, vest-like defense of leather, with coarsely woven fabric front facing to which is attached by thread, iron scales on 1 face. Scales are shield-shaped, slightly concave to body, each with a very slight medial ridge, pointed below & with raised rim at top edge & corners. Scales are twice-riveted to fabric strips that are themselves in turn sewn to leather backing. All overlap towards waist which has a row of rectangular scales with scalloped basal edge. Lower sides are angled from below armpits to waist. Cut of defense suggests that this is in fact, the back portion of a scale cuirass, with a later-added leather front.ProvenanceDr. Bashford Dean (Riverdale, NY) to 1928. Purchased by John W. Higgins, from the estate of Dr. Bashford Dean, on 28 September 1929 (their no. 10). Given to the Museum on 26 December 1946. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
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