Costume Armor in the Classical Style

Helmet includes original paper label of Hallé French

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 376

Pageants in pseudoclassical dress were popular in Europe from the sixteenth through the eighteenth century. An elaborate costume of the kind displayed here may have been worn for a theatrical performance or a court festivity, such as a ball or carousel in which the theme was taken from classical mythology or history. The embroidered tunic represents an embossed bronze cuirass of the type worn by high-ranking Roman officers. The stylized Greek helmet is richly decorated with mythological and allegorical figures. Inside the helmet is the original paper label that identifies the Parisian maker as Halle dit Mercier and advertises his ability to provide helmets, shields, masks, costumes, and scenery for any occasion.

Costume Armor in the Classical Style, Helmet includes original paper label of Hallé (French, Paris, active ca. 1780–1800), Helmet: linen, papier-mâché, bole, gold leaf, graphite; tunic: silk, cotton, metal coils and spangles, metallic yarn, French, Paris

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Costume Armor in the Classical Style, Helmet includes original paper label of Hallé (French, Paris, active ca. 1780–1800), Helmet: linen, papier-mâché, bole, gold leaf, graphite; tunic: silk, cotton, metal coils and spangles, metallic yarn, French, Paris
Costume Armor in the Classical Style, Helmet includes original paper label of Hallé (French, Paris, active ca. 1780–1800), Helmet: linen, papier-mâché, bole, gold leaf, graphite; tunic: silk, cotton, metal coils and spangles, metallic yarn, French, Paris

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