Cuirass
1700/50
Medium
Steel, brass, silver-gilt bradding, silk textile, and leather
Dimensions
Breastplate Wt. 16 lb. 7 oz. Backplate Wt. 16 lb. 5 oz.
Classification
suit-element
Department
Applied Arts of Europe
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
116332
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
At over 33 pounds, this shot-proof breastplate was nearly too heavy to wear. Surprisingly, this is about the same weight as the outer tactical vests (OTVs) used by the modern military. This well-preserved cuirass was likely produced for the elite cavalry regiment known as the King’s Cuirassiers. The original blue surface contrasted against engraved and gilt bands to reference the French royal colors.
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...