Main Plate of a Left Pauldron (shoulder defense)
Culture
Southern German
Dateabout 1450
Mediumsteel
Dimensions22.2 × 32.4 cm (8 3/4 × 12 3/4 in.), 1 lb 6 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.804
DescriptionGreatly reduced steel with multiple patched repairs. Has medial ridge; rounded over side of arm & extending well over chest & shoulderblade in deep, rounded lobes. At point of shoulder, secured with modern rivets, is elliptical, curved plate with medial ridge. At edge below is fragment of narrow, curved lamination, the first lame of what was probably a spaudler-like defense of 3 downward lames with upper cannon of the vambrace. Opposite edge has a low point. Surface over arm decorated with pair of inverted, chevronic ribs whose points intersect medial ridge. Lobes lightly embossed with broad, shallow flutes: 4 front & 5 rear. Front group runs nearly vertically with curved anterior edge. Those of rear radiate obliquely across face from near point of arm.
The upper edge of the upper lame may once have secured a leather tab pierced for arming-points. On the lower edge of the same plate is a single hole that may have been part of a set securing an internal articulating leather to the lower lames.
The overall shape seems to have been a bit flattened.
ProvenanceRhodes Beshiklash his brother in Paris Louis R. Bachereau Bashford Dean. Purchased by John W. Higgins from the estate of Dr. Bashford Dean (Riverdale NY) on 28 September 1929. Lot 929, purchased with lots 928, 927, 1671 all for purchase price of $40.00. Given to Armory on 8 January 1947. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on view
Southern German
about 1550
