Backplate of an Anime (articulated torso armor), adapted for use in the "Gioco del Ponte" games

Date1550–1560

Mediumsteel, lead and paint

Dimensions40.6 × 33 × 12.7 cm (16 × 13 × 5 in.), 3 lb 4 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

MarkingsPunch-dotted letters "G", "P" (for Galleria Prima) at neck; inside lower edge of each intermediate lames has faint sequence nicks to R of center, 1-7, top to bottom.

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.732

DescriptionShallow, made of nine horizontal, riveted lames, overlapping upward. Each cusped above over width, except uppermost lame, which is shaped to the tops of shoulders & neck. Each cusp with domed, decorative rivet. Cusped edges bordered by set of triple, narrow incised lines.

Neck & arms unturned. Shoulders and flanks are fitted with pairs of lead eyelets, probably a later adaptation for attachment laces in the Guioco (the softer metal being less likely to cut the laces). Cf. the similar eyelets on 2014.754.

Terminal lame with narrow, curved, unturned flange. Cusps are accentuated with embossed ridges below. Upper edge of the lames on the outside is beveled.

Very overcleaned; some patching. Painted inside. There are disused holes for leathers on the lowest 5 lames, the top 2 of which have been modified to become slots for sliding rivets. There are traces of sliding rivets around the perimeter, and other disused and/or plugged holes elsewhere. The fit of the waistlame is poor--perhaps there was once an intermediate lame above?
ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins on September 28, 1929 from Estate of Dr. Bashford Dean (Riverdale, NY). Given to the Museum on December 26, 1946. Probably from Galleria Prima in Pisa Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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