Shield (Rotella or Brocchiere) from an Armor Garniture of the Völs-Colonna Family

ca. 1570–80
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 380
This steel shield for infantry use features finely etched segments with the arms of the Grand Duke Marcantonio Colonna (1535–1584) alternating with figures from classical mythology. It was originally part of a larger garniture, a matching set of interchangeable armor elements for a man and his horse (now in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art). The ensemble presented an image of the weaerer as wealthy, educated, and connected to an important family.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Shield (Rotella or Brocchiere) from an Armor Garniture of the Völs-Colonna Family
  • Date: ca. 1570–80
  • Geography: Milan
  • Culture: Italian, Milan
  • Medium: Steel, copper alloy (brass), leather, horsehair, textile
  • Dimensions: Diam. 21 3/4 in. (55.2 cm); D. 7 3/8 in. (18.7 cm); Wt. 8 lb. 9.4 oz. (3895 g)
  • Classification: Shields
  • Credit Line: Gift of William H. Riggs, 1913
  • Object Number: 14.25.768
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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