Art Institute of Chicago

Infantry Armor

German, possibly Cologne

Date

1510/15

Medium

Steel and leather

Culture

Cologne

Department

Applied Arts of Europe

Institution

Art Institute of Chicago

Infantry armors like this example were produced in quantities to outfit German mercenaries known as Landsknechte, who dominated battlefields in the early 16th century. As professional soldiers, these men were expected to equip themselves within their means. Answering the demand, armorers manufactured harnesses like this on spec rather than for a specific client. The breastplate, backplate, and splinted arms are adjustable and were designed to fit a common-sized soldier. Nevertheless, even as a piece of medium-quality armor, this harness is embellished with fashionable flutes and ripples.

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