Portions of a Field Armor

Unknown

dated 1524 · Steel, leather · Arms and Armor

These pieces were once part of a complete armor designed for use in battle. Its missing parts include the helmet, collar, gauntlets, and leg defenses. Even though incomplete, this armor is notable for the quality of its construction, the elegance of its form, accented by prominent roped ridges, and for its lively etched decoration. The etched decoration features distinctive female heads, birds, and trophies amid foliate scrolls, all derived from prints by Daniel Hopfer (1471–1536). It is believed that early in his career, Hopfer etched ornament and figures on armor. Emperor Maximilian especially favored armor decorated with Italianate motifs in the Northern Renaissance style.

Artist

Unknown

Date

dated 1524

Medium

Steel, leather

Culture

German, probably Augsburg

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Bashford Dean Memorial Collection, Bequest of Bashford Dean, 1928