Elements of an Italian Light-Cavalry Armor <i>alla Tedesca</i> (in the German Fashion)

Elements of an Italian Light-Cavalry Armor <i>alla Tedesca</i> (in the German Fashion)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This is a rare example of Italian armor decorated with fluted surfaces in the German fashion. Its etched and richly gilt decoration is derived from Christian symbolism and the Bible. The band across the top of the breastplate depicts the Virgin and Child in the center, Saint Paul on the right, and Saint George on the left. A Latin inscription below reads, CRISTVS RES VENIT IN PACE ET DEVS HOMO FACTVS ES (Christ the King came in peace and God was made man). Another inscription, across the top of the backplate, reads, IESVS AVTEM TRANSIENS PERMEDIVM ILORVM IBAT. (But Jesus passing through their midst went his way [Luke 4:30]). The Trinity––Father, Son, and Holy Spirit––is depicted on the front of the gorget (collar).

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Elements of an Italian Light-Cavalry Armor <i>alla Tedesca</i> (in the German Fashion)Elements of an Italian Light-Cavalry Armor <i>alla Tedesca</i> (in the German Fashion)Elements of an Italian Light-Cavalry Armor <i>alla Tedesca</i> (in the German Fashion)Elements of an Italian Light-Cavalry Armor <i>alla Tedesca</i> (in the German Fashion)Elements of an Italian Light-Cavalry Armor <i>alla Tedesca</i> (in the German Fashion)

The principal goals of the Arms and Armor Department are to collect, preserve, research, publish, and exhibit distinguished examples representing the art of the armorer, swordsmith, and gunmaker. Arms and armor have been a vital part of virtually all cultures for thousands of years, pivotal not only in conquest and defense, but also in court pageantry and ceremonial events. Throughout time the best armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical capabilities of the society and period in which they were made, forming a unique aspect of both art history and material culture.