Artwork preview

Pair of Thigh Defenses (Cuisses) with Knee Defenses (Poleyns)

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Two pieces of metal armor, made of steel or iron, with a ribbed design, displayed side by side. The armor pieces are shaped to fit the thigh and knee, with a fluted design featuring multiple vertical ridges. The top portion is wider and tapers down, with a smooth metal band around the top edge. The bottom portion is more articulated, with a curved piece covering the knee and two rounded pieces on either side. The metal appears weathered and worn, with visible signs of aging and use. The background is a plain gray surface, providing a neutral backdrop for the armor.

Artwork details

Date:
16th century
Medium:
Steel
Culture:
German, Nuremberg
Dimensions:
537 × 624 px
Museum record:
View original
Palette