Fingered Gauntlet

Culture German , perhaps Augsburg

Date1590–1600

Mediumsteel

Dimensions32 × 14 cm (12 5/8 × 5 1/2 in.), 1 lb, 6 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.576.1

DescriptionMate to WAM 2014.576.2. Steel, for right hand. Deep flaring pointed cuff, unusually constructed in laminations overlapping towards wrist, similarly rendered on inner face. End bilobated, with 1 decorative brass-capped iron rivet articulating the lame itself, the other articulating the interior lame. Cuff at opening is inwardly turned over wire & closely roped & bordered by brass-capped rivets. Wrist plate has necked brass stud, possibly for slotted strap once around inside of wrist. Another found on edge of plate at base of knuckles. Metacarpal lames similar, but with single lobe only & brass-capped rivet. From 4th lame to end, restored. Plates over fingers are triangularly embossed, accented by pair of incised lines. Number of finger scales preserved, but detached.

Hinged thumb defense & attached portion of hinge, restored. Defense has trapezoidal plate with pointed lames above & below, all with notched edges & brass rivets. Low medial ridge extending to knuckles & edges of lames are bordered by incised sets of thin lines.
ProvenanceEx-Bashford Dean estate, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art (acc. no. 29.158.229 a, b). Purchased by Museum at Parke-Bernet Galleries, Inc.. (NYC) on November 15, 1956, sale no. 1708, lot no. 174. Paid $95 for lot which includes HAM#s 3135.1-7. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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