Close-Helmet of Vicenzo I Gonzaga (1562–1612), Duke of Mantua

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Although incomplete––the face defense and collar lames are missing––this helmet is nevertheless an outstanding example of late-sixteenth-century Milanese armor. Its rich decoration, which is chiseled, punched, and damascened in gold and silver, includes eagles, crowns, and a monogram comprising the letters V and F (or VFL). An armor with identical decoration appears in a portrait of Vincenzo I Gonzaga (1562–1612), duke of Mantua (Palazzo Ducale, Mantua), thought to have been painted about 1587, the year of his accession. Other portions of this armor, which appears to have been a large garniture intended for field, mounted tournament, and foot combat at the barriers, are preserved in the Musée de l'Armée, Paris, and the Armeria Reale, Turin.

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