Shield (Adarga)
Adargas are a type of leather shield introduced into Spain from North Africa in the 13th century. A later form was then used in the New World by the Spanish. This example is made of three layers of hide stitched together with leather laces that create an abstract pattern. It is painted with a simplified rendering of the Spanish royal arms. Acquired by the Museum in 1913, it was thought to be a Spanish work of the 16th century. It has since been recognized as a work of the 18th century from northern New Spain (Mexico), in what is now the American Southwest.
Artwork Details
- Title: Shield (Adarga)
- Date: probably mid-18th century
- Culture: Mexican
- Medium: Leather, polychromy
- Dimensions: H. 19 1/4 in. (48.9 cm); W. 19 1/2 in. (49.5 cm); Wt. 2 lb. 11 oz. (1219 g)
- Classification: Shields
- Credit Line: Gift of William H. Riggs, 1913
- Object Number: 14.25.752
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
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Manuel Casco
dated 1738
Mexican
second half 18th–early 19th century
Mexican
18th century
Mexican
18th century
Mexican
18th century
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