Scale Armor (section)

Culture Italian , or

Culture Polish

Datelate 16th–early 17th century

Mediumiron and leather

Dimensions2 lb 4 oz (total weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.817.1

DescriptionIron scales riveted to thick black leather backing, preserved in five segments. Largest segment preserved is irregularly trapezoidal in outline, with some 64 more-or-less teardrop-shaped flat scales with bevelled edges, secured by pair of rivets to the leather, & overlapping down & left to right. Segment preserves the rounded right corner, suggesting defense was perhaps that form found on a small number of Italian late 16th century half armors for foot combat. However, inferior quality indicates that could be from a Polish scale armor of munitions-grade.
ProvenanceDr. Bashford Dean (Riverdale, NY). Purchased as part of lot no. 14 of the Bashford Dean estate on 28 September 1929. Purchase price reflects total price paid for lot. Given to the Museum on 26 December 1946. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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