Breastplate (<i>Kastenbrust</i>)

Breastplate (<i>Kastenbrust</i>)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Although it was in wide use across Europe by the early fifteenth century, very little plate armor survives from that period. This breastplate is one of the earliest German examples in existence. It is almost identical to the breastplate on a statue of Emperor Friedrich III (1415–1493), dated 1453, and represents the latest innovation in German armor design and technology of the time. Unfortunately, it is not known where Dean acquired this piece.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Breastplate (<i>Kastenbrust</i>)Breastplate (<i>Kastenbrust</i>)Breastplate (<i>Kastenbrust</i>)Breastplate (<i>Kastenbrust</i>)Breastplate (<i>Kastenbrust</i>)

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.