Lot Essay
It is unusual for a piece of such weight to be so elaborately decorated. The decoration is reminiscent of that found on French firearms during much of the 18th Century
Details
A RARE SHOT-PROOF BREAST-PLATE
EARLY 18TH CENTURY, PROBABLY FRENCH
Of russet iron and exceptional weight, with slight medial ridge ending in a blunt point at the bottom, the main edges bordered by large brass-headed lining rivets, and with narrow flanges simulating turns at the neck, arms and bottom, the front engraved with three narrow bands radiating from a basal spray of conventional foliage flanked by large trophies of arms and with borders en suite, all partly decorated with gold-damascening including running foliage
19½in. (49.5cm.)
EARLY 18TH CENTURY, PROBABLY FRENCH
Of russet iron and exceptional weight, with slight medial ridge ending in a blunt point at the bottom, the main edges bordered by large brass-headed lining rivets, and with narrow flanges simulating turns at the neck, arms and bottom, the front engraved with three narrow bands radiating from a basal spray of conventional foliage flanked by large trophies of arms and with borders en suite, all partly decorated with gold-damascening including running foliage
19½in. (49.5cm.)
Exhibited
The Art of the Armourer, Victoria and Albert Museum, 19 April-5 May 1963, No. 10