DescriptionThis masterpiece of Renaissance metalwork is signed on the browplate by Filippo Negroli, whose embossed armor was praised by sixteenth-century chroniclers as "miraculous" and deserving "immortal merit." Made from one plate of steel, patinated to look like bronze, the bowl is raised in high relief with motifs inspired by classical art. The graceful mermaid forming the helmet's comb holds the grimacing head of Medusa by the hair. The sides of the helmet are covered with acanthus scrolls inhabited by putti, a motif probably derived from the Roman wall frescoes rediscovered in the Golden House of Nero.

Signatures, Inscriptions, and MarkingsInscriptions: Signed: (on brow plate, in gold) PHILIPP NEG/ROLV FECIT MDXXXXIII

ProvenanceEx coll.: Sir Bernard Brocas, Berkshire; Duc de Luynes; J.P. Morgan, New York