Pompeo della Chiesa, Milan, Italy, c. 1571–1593.
Pompeo della Chiesa, Milan, Italy, c. 1571–1593.
Steel.
39 cm x 21 cm x 37 cm.
This visored helmet, which most likely belonged to a wealthy, high-ranking officer or nobleman, was made at the armoury of the famed Pompeo della Cesa, close to Milan. The helmet and its gorget are skilfully adorned using acid etching. Classical symbolic figures are depicted between frets. The decorations are placed on stripes, which were originally gilded.