Pikeman's Armor with Helmet for a Harquebusier, later decorated for ceremonial use

Culture Netherlandish

Dateabout 1625–1650, decorated in 1700s

Mediumsteel, paint, modern leather

Dimensions16 lb 10 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.1132

DescriptionComposite, and made of a vestigial peascod breast and one-piece back, both with plain inward turned edges. The original straps from the backplate are lost, but the long, pierced terminal plates are preserved. Riveted to the downturned basal flange of the breastplate is a pair of one-piece tassets of trapezoidal form, transversely embossed to represent multiple laminations. Each tasset is held to the flange by a pair of simple, plain hinges. The gorget is comprised of a pair of plates with a short neck flange, and riveted atop the left shoulder and secured at the right by a hole engaging a domed stud. The associated helmet is a fluted Zischaegge. The two-piece skull is ribbed, and has an integral fall over the eyes, and is pierced for an adjustable nasal bar (replaced, as is the set screw). The flaring, bluntly pointed, riveted nape defense is, like the tassets, embossed to suggest laminations. The entire armor is painted a drab green (faded and soiled) with an overall pattern of gold-painted stars.

Composed probably from elements of munitions-grade "harquebusiers armor" in the Tower of London Armouries in the 18th century, and decoratively painted for ceremonial usage at that time.

37" high, 22" wide, 16" deep.

Label TextAs the military use of armor declined, stockpiles of old armor gathered dust in the armories of European kings and noblemen. Some of it was eventually refurbished for ceremonial uses. This infantry torso armor and cavalryman's helmet appear to have been in the British Royal Armouries, where they were decorated as a set in the 1700s. Eventually some of the armor in these collections, like this harness, was sold to private collectors, especially in the 1800s when armor collecting became fashionable.ProvenanceAccording to Grancsay 1961, this was formerly in the Tower of London John Beardmore (by 1845) Purchased by John W. Higgins on May 16, 1930 from Cyril Andrade, Ltd. of London, his no. 122. Given to the Museum on December 15, 1931. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

On View

Not on view