1973 Breastplate
1973) KNIGHTS OF ST JOHN BREASTPLATE CIRCA 1600: A highly collectible piece of both Christianity and Renaissance warfare. Priced to sell immediately.
Introduction: This is the third or fourth breastplate from this group that I have had over the last 35 years. The Knights of St. John, also known as the Knights Hospitaller, were a medieval Catholic military order originally founded in Jerusalem in the 11th century to provide medical care for sick and injured pilgrims. Over time, they evolved into a powerful military force that played a crucial role in the Crusades and the defense of Christendom in the Mediterranean.
Even though the Knights were contemporaries of the Templars and were responsible for many important and difficult military victories. One of their many legendary military exploits was their victory against the Ottoman Empire’s vastly superior forces during the Great Siege of Malta, from May 18 to September 11, 1565. It pitted the Knights of St. John with 700 knights and 8,000 men-at-arms defending their island stronghold against the entire forces of the Ottoman Empire, estimated at 30,000 to 40,000 men-at-arms and one of the best naval forces of its day. This siege failed due to a brilliant defense by the Knights under the brilliant and heroic leadership of Grand Master Jean Parisot de la Vallette.
Discussion: Medieval and Renaissance knights used symbols on their armor primarily for three reasons. 1) identification, 2) status, and 3) spiritual protection.
1) Identification: As full plate armor evolved to cover the face, recognizing individuals in the chaos of battle became nearly impossible without visual markers to avoid “friendly fire” and for commanders to track their army’s progress. During an era when few could read, combatants were easy to identify even by the illiterate.
2) Status: Symbols on armor served as a “medieval identifier” of a Knight’s nobility and rank. Higher-ranking nobles often had their breastplates richly decorated with gold, silver, or intricate engravings to demonstrate their wealth and power.
3) Spiritual Protection: Religious symbols, such as crosses or figures of saints (like St. George), were frequently engraved on breastplates to invoke divine protection and reflect the knight’s Christian faith.
Condition: Very good, recently refreshed to museum standards. A slight delamination area in the back, as pictured.
Provenance: Knight of St John.
-By tradition obtained in the 1960’s in Malta.
-European collector.
-American Collector.
Conclusion: This is a highly collectible piece of both Christianity and Renaissance warfare by a legendary group of warriors who were the equivalent of today’s Navy Seals. When you see this breastplate across a room, it calls to you. It’s a statement of chivalry…class…elegance… refinement and taste.
Priced to sell immediately. ACT-KNOW, this one should sell fast, and you will be disappointed!!!*
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