Three-Quarter Armor

Kolman Helmschmid

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The pauldrons (shoulder defenses), and vambraces (arm defenses) of this armor are attributed to Kolman Helmschmid based on comparison with his known works. The associated helmet’s (acc. no. 50.237.2) distinctive snub-nosed visor appears to be a form that he originated and used on three other helmets, all dating from the mid-1520s. The decoration of these elements is typical of the style of Daniel Hopfer of Augsburg (about 1470–1536), a celebrated armor-etcher and printmaker, who is known to have decorated armors made by members of the the Helmschmid family. The remainder of this armor is composed of southern German elements from about 1520 to 1530, except for minor restorations.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

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.

Metropolitan Museum of Art