Breastplate
Culture
German
Dateprobably late 1800s, in the style of 1550–1575
Mediumsteel with gilding, iron, brass and modern leather
Dimensions51 × 40 × 20 cm (20 1/16 × 15 3/4 × 7 7/8 in.), 8 lb, 4 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Markings"W" etched on a shield on the L side of the lower skirt lame (see photo in digital file). There are alignment dots at the top and bottom of the medial ridge.
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.864.4
DescriptionConsists of chestplate, bellyplate, 2 fauld lames, 2 gussets.ProvenanceEx-collections: Mr. Victor Binder (Copenhagen) Christie's (London) Mr. Coureau unknown location Mr. S.J. Whawell (England) Mr. Clarence H. Mackay (Roslyn, L.I. according to Grancsay notes in the MMA archives Mackay purchased the harness and greaves from Whawell in 1924). Purchased by Museum on April 1, 1940 from Jacques Seligmann & Co. (NYC), agents for Clarence H. Mackay estate, dealer's no. A-21/107. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on view
Southern German
about 1580, with modern restorations
Desiderius Helmschmid
about 1552
