Bazuband (forearm guard)

Culture Ottoman

Date1500s

Mediumsteel

Dimensions36.2 cm (14 1/4 in.), 1 lb 2 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

MarkingsStruck low down, just behind the central ridge, is the incised "tamga" ownership mark which appears on pieces formerly in the Church of St Irene, Istanbul.

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.1028

DescriptionDefense for the left forearm, made in one piece from robust steel. It is centrally ridged and curved round the point of the elbow where it ends in a rounded point. The lower edge is flanged outwards at the wrist, with 4 holes, probably to secure the now-lost handguard. The front corner is broken off, as is a section of the front edge of the elbow; this could be battle damage. The rear edge is pierced to receive the strip of mail which linked this plate to its inner plate. Many of the links, made of round wire, survive. The rows of links are alternately welded and riveted. The edge around the upper forearm and elbow is pierced with holes for the lining. A rivet with a round-cut octagonal washer at the front edge, and a hole a little way inside it, were for attaching the strap that secured the inner plate. Most of the surface is engraved with a floral pattern on a stippled background, punctuated by pairs of incised lines. Similar decoration appears along the point of the elbow.
ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins on September 28, 1929 from estate of Bashford Dean (Riverdale, NY), odd lot #3. Given to the Museum on January 8, 1947. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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