Breastplate with Fauld and Tassets

Culture German

Dateabout 1525–1530

Mediumsteel, iron, and leather

Dimensions69 × 59 × 23 cm (27 3/16 × 23 1/4 × 9 1/16 in.), 15 lb, 12 oz (weight with lance rest)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.111.3

DescriptionOf heavy steel. Consists of chestplate; 2 gussets fitted with shoulderstrap buckles; waistplate; 3 fauld lames; 2 tassets of 4 lames each. Chestplate pierced for a rest, with two additional plugged holes for a rest. Lacing holes at neck, with another hole just below (to secure a reinforce; the photo in the Zschille collection catalogue shows a staple at this point). Lining rivets along the base of the tassets.
Label TextThe fully armored knight astride his warhorse was part tank, part fashionista, part action hero. The suit of armor was carefully crafted to provide maximum protection while moving naturally with the body to allow this highly trained warrior to use his skills to the utmost. But this warrior was also a courtier whose armor was an integral part of his stylish wardrobe. The rounded shaping and rippled surface of this armor have some protective qualities, but more importantly they imitate the rich pleated fabrics of a gentleman's civilian clothing; the smooth armor on the lower leg imitates his silk stockings; and the broad-toed sabatons echo the shape of fashionable men's shoes of the day.ProvenanceEx-collection of Stadtrath Richard Zschille, Privy Counsellor of Grossenhain in Saxony. Purchased through Messrs. Tiffany & Co. by Oliver H.P. Belmont, from whose widow it was purchased by Clarence H. Mackay. Purchased by Museum on November 9, 1940 from Jacques Seligmann & Co. (NYC), agents for estate of Clarence H. Mackay. Purchase price of $15,000 included all numbers associated with HAM#2604. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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