Backplate

Armorer Lowest lame made and decorated by Leonard Heinrich German
ca. 1550–55; some etched decoration, possibly 19th century; lowest lame, 1932
Not on view
The elements of armor exhibited here represent parts parts of several closely related garnitures, the etched ornament of which can be attributed to the Augsburg etcher Jörg Sorg the Younger. Three similar armors made for Spanish knights in 1551 and 1553 were recorded in Sorg's pen-and-wash album of armor designs that is now preserved in the Württembergische Landesbibliothek, Stuttgart. The numerous exchange and reinforcing pieces indicate that the armor was adaptable for use not only in battle but also in several forms of tournament.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Backplate
  • Etcher: Jörg Sorg the Younger (German, Augsburg, ca. 1522–1603)
  • Armorer: Lowest lame made and decorated by Leonard Heinrich (American (born Germany) Munich 1900–1966 Clarksville, New Jersey) at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Armor Workshop
  • Date: ca. 1550–55; some etched decoration, possibly 19th century; lowest lame, 1932
  • Geography: Augsburg
  • Culture: German, Augsburg
  • Medium: Steel, gold
  • Dimensions: H. 16 1/2 in. (41.9 cm); W. 13 1/2 in. (34.3 cm)
  • Classification: Armor Parts-Backplates
  • Credit Line: Gift of George D. Pratt, 1926
  • Object Number: 26.234.3
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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