Backplate

Culture Northwestern European

Dateabout 1600–1620

Mediumsteel, brass and modern leather

Dimensions39 cm (15 3/8 in.), 10 lb 9 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.1156.4

DescriptionCa. 1600-20. Of straight form, well fashioned of heavy steel (about the same weight as breastplate, which it appears to match). Slightly outwardly rounded at shoulderblades, with a medial indentation full-length to the waist. Integral basal flange, vertically cusped at medial line. Edges are inwardly turned (except basal edge which is straight-cut) and decorated as the breast. This decoration, however, appears to be re-done, as traces of a finer oblique decoration appears on the turned edge of the left armpit.

The edge of the basal flange is fitted with thirteen brass rivets with octagonal iron washers which retain a coarse-woven burlap strip. Near its mid-level the flange is pierced with two holes, nearly in-line with the waist strap terminals. These holes are not equidistant from the edges, and so cannot be viewed as attachments for a culet. Above the waistline is a modern brass buckle and strap. Above these terminals are vertical pairs of rivet-filled holes, the original purpose of which is unknown.

Near the upper edge of the terminals above the shoulders is a pair of hinged steel straps. Curving over the breast, these are fitted with modern threaded posts at mid-length, with truncated conical nuts. The straps are terminated in pierced, irregularly trefoil forms. The straps widen towards the hinged trapezoidal bases, which are secured with two transverse rivets. The entire fixture and strap of the left appears to be restored.
Provenance(Armor only) No provenance prior to Andrade. Purchased by John W Higgins from Cyril Andrade, Ltd (London) on 5 October 1929. Given to the Armory on 10 December 1931. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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