Shield for the Field or Tournament (Targe)

Unknown

15th century · Wood, canvas, leather, gesso, silver, polychromy, iron · Arms and Armor

Although damaged from use and age, this shield is one of the most beautifully painted examples of the fifteenth century. On the preserved surface shows a woman wearing a feathered turban and holding a scroll inscribed in German “fahr mit Freuden” (go with joy). A heraldic shield to the right formerly displayed an owner’s coat of arms, which is now illegible. The surrounding areas are delicately painted with foliate scrolls and “cloud bands” in opaque colors and translucent glazes on a polished silver-leaf ground.

Artist

Unknown

Date

15th century

Medium

Wood, canvas, leather, gesso, silver, polychromy, iron

Culture

German

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Gift of Mrs. Florence Blumenthal, 1925