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Backplate and Hoguine (Rump Defense) from a Costume Armor

Kolman Helmschmid

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Metal armor with gold accents, comprising a backplate and a rump defense, also known as a cuisse or a potence. The armor is segmented into multiple plates. It covers the upper and lower back, buttocks, and upper arms. The plates on the back are etched with a design featuring a large scorpion surrounded by curvy lines. The plates on the upper arms are segmented into three parts, specifically the upper arm, forearm, and bicep. The armor pieces are silver with gold etchings. The background is black.

Artwork Details

Date
ca. 1525
Medium
Steel, gold
Culture
German, Augsburg
Dimensions
599 × 448 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette