Composite "Maximilian" Field Armor
Artistportions by
Valentin Siebenbürger
(German, 1510–1564)
Dateabout 1515–1530
Mediumsteel, iron, brass and leather with modern restorations
Dimensions44 lb, 7 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
MarkingsGauntlets bear the mark of Valentin Siebenbürger (1510-1564).
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.1141
DescriptionConsists of helmet (rather plain compared to other elements), collar (altered from Almain collar), breastplate with lance-rest and tassets; arm harness; cuisses with poleyns; greaves with sabatons; mitten gauntlets by Siebenbuerger.Label TextThe Maximilian style of armor, named for the Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I, was fashionable in the early 1500s. In many ways it represented the technical peak of armor making. The densely rippled surfaces, imitating the pleated look of civilian clothing, proved the armorer's mastery of his art. The square-cut neckline and broad-toed shoes also echoed the look of contemporary male fashion.ProvenanceWilliam Randolph Hearst collection, purchased from J. Gluckselig & Sohn, Vienna. purchased by Museum from Parke-Bernet Galleries (NYC) on December 4, 1952, sale no. 1387, item no. 140. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014. Greaves/sabatons traded in from HAM 404 in 2013, prior to collection transfer, see separate records for provenance.
On View
On view
Desiderius Helmschmid
about 1552
Southern German
about 1525–1530, with decoration about 1805; greaves and sabatons c. 1930
German
about 1540–1625, with 19th-20th century restorations
Southern German
about 1580, with modern restorations
