Artwork Page for Bishop's Mantle (Cape)

Details / Information for Bishop's Mantle (Cape)

Bishop's Mantle (Cape)

c. 1520–30

European (German or Swiss?), early 16th century

Medium
riveted steel (some brass) rings; reinforced collar
Measurements
Overall (display): 55.9 x 53.3 x 27.9 cm (22 x 21 x 11 in.); Laid flat: 95.8 cm (37 11/16 in.); Diameter: 1 cm (3/8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Severance 1921.1256
Public Domain
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Location
210A Armor Court
Print
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Did You Know?

In 805 an edict of Charlemagne established a link between the right to own land and the obligation to own a chainmail shirt.

Description

Chain mail capes known as "bishop's mantles" were popular with German mercenary foot soldiers between about 1500 and 1550. They were often worn as the only element of armor.
A dark gray steel and brass chainmail cape is composed of thousands of small, interlocking riveted rings. A thick, reinforced collar encircles the neck, descending into a V-shaped bib over the chest. The mesh drapes over the shoulders, tapering to a sharp point in the front center. A buckle and strap are attached to the upper right edge. The garment's surface forms a dense, metallic texture of uniform, circular links.

Bishop's Mantle (Cape)

c. 1520–30

European (German or Swiss?), early 16th century

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