Articulated Shotproof Breastplate

Culture Austrian , or

Culture German

Dateearly 1600s

Mediumsteel with modern leather

Dimensions47 × 38.1 × 21 cm (18 1/2 × 15 × 8 1/4 in.), 14 lb 5 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Markings"2." inside in red paint (typical for Hohenwerfen; also "D" in white paint. The same marks appear in the back and pauldrons.

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.1163.1

DescriptionOf robust weight, has proof mark on left side of chest. Consists of chestplate with articulated gussets, plus 3 articulated belly plates overlapping upward; the lowest of these has a peasecod shape, with an inward turn at the bottom edge, and lining holes along it. The modern waistlame does not belong, as this breastplate never had a waistlame. Heavy inward turns at neck and on gussets. Right gusset associated (might be a working-life repair). Matches backplate.

There are traces of incised double-line decoration on the chest and belly plates.
Label TextThis exceptionally heavy cavalry breastplate was made to resist musket shots; the "proof" mark used to test it can be seen on the right side. The mark was made by firing a musket at the piece to prove that it could resist the shot. Breastplates and helmets were often made musket-proof; armor for the legs, arms, and back was generally lighter, tested only against a pistol.ProvenanceArchduke Eugen's Armory, Fortress Hohenwerfen, Salzburg, Austria purchased by John W. Higgins on March 5, 1927 from Anderson Galleries (NY), their # 1064. Given to the Museum on March 1, 1929. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, Janaury 2014.

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