The Cleveland Museum of Art

Collection Online as of July 17, 2026

Crafted from weathered, pitted steel, this helmet cheekpiece rises to a jagged top edge. Domed gold-colored rivets trace its curved borders, while a floral brass ornament is affixed to the right. At the base, a flared plate hinges outward, joined on the left by a silver-colored pin. The piece exhibits a robust form punctuated by decorative elements, reflecting both the utility and artistry of historical armor.

Ear Piece of a Helmet

1500s

Germany

steel, brass headed rivets
Overall: 19.7 x 14.7 cm (7 3/4 x 5 13/16 in.)
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Severance 1916.1530.b
Location: Not on view
  • the pair of ear pieces were purchased by Dr. Bashford Dean in Paris in 1891 and presented to his friend, Frank Gair Macomber, Boston, #567.
  • Gilchrist, Helen Ives. A Catalogue of the Collection of Arms & Armor Presented to the Cleveland Museum of Art by Mr. and Mrs. John Long Severance; 1916-1923. Cleveland: The Cleveland Museum of Art, 1924. Mentioned: p. 44, B10 archive.org
  • {{cite web|title=Ear Piece of a Helmet|url=false|author=|year=1500s|access-date=17 July 2026|publisher=Cleveland Museum of Art}}

Source URL:

https://www.clevelandart.org/art/1916.1530.b