Costume Armor and Sword in the Classical Style

Hallé

ca. 1788–90 · Linen, papier-mâché, bole, gold leaf, graphite (helmet); silk, cotton, metal coils and spangles, metallic yarn (tunic); steel, wood, gesso, silver, gold leaf (sword) · Arms and Armor

Pageants in pseudoclassical dress were popular in Europe from the sixteenth through the eighteenth century. An elaborate costume of the kind displayed here may have been worn for a theatrical performance or a court festivity, such as a ball or carousel in which the theme was taken from classical mythology or history. The embroidered tunic represents an embossed bronze cuirass of the type worn by high-ranking Roman officers. The stylized Greek helmet is richly decorated with mythological and allegorical figures. Inside the helmet is the original paper label that identifies the Parisian maker as Halle dit Mercier and advertises his ability to provide helmets, shields, masks, costumes, and scenery for any occasion.

Artist

Hallé

Date

ca. 1788–90

Medium

Linen, papier-mâché, bole, gold leaf, graphite (helmet); silk, cotton, metal coils and spangles, metallic yarn (tunic); steel, wood, gesso, silver, gold leaf (sword)

Culture

French, Paris

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Armor: Funds from various donors, 1988; sword: Purchase, Gift of Estate of James Hazen Hyde, by exchange, and Rogers Fund, 1995