Artwork Page for "Waistcoat" Cuirass (Combined Breast and Backplates)

Details / Information for "Waistcoat" Cuirass (Combined Breast and Backplates)

"Waistcoat" Cuirass (Combined Breast and Backplates)

c. 1580

North Italy, 16th century

Medium
Steel; brass rivets simulating buttons
Measurements
Overall: 47.6 x 29.6 x 25.7 cm (18 3/4 x 11 5/8 x 10 1/8 in.)
Weight: 4.96 kg (10.93 lbs.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Severance 1916.1721
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
210A Armor Court
Print
?

Did You Know?

While it would provide some protection to the torso, the armor here is very light; fashion not function was the prerequisite.

Description

This cuirass is a specialized type of costume armor. In addition to protecting its owner's torso, it was clearly intended to simulate a civilian jacket, or doublet, with a row of buttons down the front. The owner would have opened it like an ordinary doublet since the two halves are hinged to a narrow backplate.
A polished steel chest armor is shaped into a sleeveless vest with a high collar. A vertical seam down the center is punctuated by golden brass rivets, matching those tracing the curves of the armholes and neck. The gray metal surface, mottled with dark speckles, includes a small horizontal hook at the center. Below, the armor flares outward before tapering into a sharp central point, creating a rigid, protective silhouette.

"Waistcoat" Cuirass (Combined Breast and Backplates)

c. 1580

North Italy, 16th century

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork