Bickom (Anvil)
15th century (?)
Medium
Iron
Classification
arms and armor, miscellaneous
Department
Applied Arts of Europe
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
116193
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Art Institute of Chicago's Department of Applied Arts of Europe the *Bickom (Anvil)* is a robust iron tool from the 15th century(?), classified among arms and armor miscellanea. This unassuming yet vital implement served as a specialized anvil for armorers and blacksmiths, a flat face for hammering plates and a tapered horn for shaping curves—essential for crafting the intricate plate armor that defined late medieval warfare and chivalry. Forged during Europe's Age of Chivalry, when knights donned full harnesses for battle and tournaments, the bickom exemplifies the pinnacle of...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...