Left Sabaton

Culture German

Dateabout 1490

Mediumsteel and leather

Dimensions8.9 × 11.4 × 20.3 cm (3 1/2 × 4 1/2 × 8 in.), 7 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.1153.7

DescriptionOf "poulaine" form, circa 1490; terminals are lacking. Formed of nine upward overlapping riveted lames working on washered rivets; cusped at rivets; medial ridge, unit terminates in arched plate over instep. Flex of the lames is generally very good. Paired holes at upper edge for arming points. Some deformation of the metal around the rear edge, perhaps suggesting possible trimming. Patching at the rivet point on the toe (possibly a working-life repair) and 6th lame up.

Toe lame is straight cut across at front, but may have been cut. Toe lame fitted with flattened, spatulate-headed turning pin vertically in line with a peg, to which would be secured the toe cap (lacking). This feature appears to be original. Unit formerly secured under instep by strap at fourth lame from toe lame.
Label TextThe paired holes on this sabaton were for a lace that tied it to the knight's shoe; a leather strap under the foot held the other end in place. The knob and stud at the toes were for adding a "toe extension plate" for the fashionable pointy-toed look--something that looked great on horseback, but was awkward on the ground.ProvenanceSir 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. (Helmet) ex church in Norfolk or Suffolk; Walter Withall. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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