Breastplate of "Gothic" form

Culture Southern German , or

Culture Austrian

Dateabout 1490

Mediumsteel

Dimensions37 × 36 × 16 cm (14 9/16 × 14 3/16 × 6 5/16 in.), 9 lb 2 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

MarkingsOn the upper half of both shoulders of breastplate is a shield charged with three six-pointed stars (possibly an armorer's mark or heraldic arms); possibly that of Count of Cilly (Zilli) of Bohemia and Poland. (WJK) Mann [visit 1948) felt it was Erbach or Hohenloff; Grancsay suggested Ashau, lords of Hohenaschau; but cf. Landshuter Plattnerkunst p. 27 #22 and p 66 pl. 30; also not a match to Churburg mark (Churburg p. 30 mark 9). See photos in digital file.

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.1153.2

DescriptionBreastplate of "Gothic" form, circa 1490. Upper plate has outwardy rolled borders, and is decorated with pairs of lightly embossed arced ridges at armpits, and single downturned chevron centered on breast. Medial ridge continues through plackart. Plate pierced with a vertical pair of holes to secure to plackart. Lower plate similarly decorated, rises to scalloped cusp; pronounced medial ridge. Restored buckles
Label TextThe slim shape, arched lines, and rippled decoration are typical of so-called "Gothic" style suits worn by central European knights during the last quarter of the 1400s.ProvenanceRichard Zschille (as of 1894) E. Barry (as of 1905) Sir Guy F. Laking purchased in 1907 by Clarence Mackay collection (his #2, #A-38 in Gimbel sale); not in "Record of Armor Sales." Purchased by Museum from Hammer Galleries, Gimbel Brothers (NYC) on June 1, 1942. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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