Backplate of an Armor for Vincenzo Luigi di Capua (d. 1627)

Pompeo della Cesa

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This backplate is part of a light-cavalry or infantry armor made for the Neapolitan nobleman Vincenzo Luigi di Capua (d. 1627), count of Altavilla and prince of Riccia. The related breastplate, also in the Metropolitan Museum's collection (acc. no. 2001.72), bears his personal impresa (emblem), a sunburst above the motto Nulla Quies Alibi (No Repose But Here). Pompeo della Cesa, whose etched signature “Pompeo” is found near the top of the breastplate in the center, was the foremost Milanese armorer of the late sixteenth century. His patrons included Philip II of Spain, who also ruled as duke of Milan; Alessandro Farnese, duke of Parma; and Emanuele Filiberto, duke of Savoy. Pompeo probably headed a large workshop and also acted as a contractor in cooperation with other shops to fill particularly large commissions. The decoration includes bands of trophies alternating with bands of allegorical and Biblical figures, one of several distinct decorative styles employed in Pompeo’s workshop.

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