1760) AN ELEGANT AND RARE SPANISH CAVALRY BREASTPLATE, CIRCA 1500: Formerly in the armory of the Dukes of Osuna and Infantado (inv. no. 241).
Introduction: There are some auctions of historic importance, and you should be aware of them. One such auction was that of the armory of the Duke of Osuna and Infantado, sold over three sales in 1880, 1890, and 1896. The armory of the Dukes of the Infantado was the second most important armory in the Iberian Peninsula after the Royal Armoury in Madrid. At one time, it had no less than 162 full armors, many of which had been made for distinguished royal and noble patrons. This collection was matched by an equally impressive array of edged weapons, firearms, and rarities, such as a shield made from an elephant’s ear with a silver brim and another from a tortoiseshell. It also housed historic artifacts, including the central gangplank from the Turkish flagship at the Battle of Lepanto, presented by Don Juan of Austria to the 5th Duke. Despite a fire in 1702, much of the armory survived into the late 19th century, when it was dispersed.
Description: Constructed in one piece with a strong vertical medial ridge, bold outward angular turns at the neck, and arm openings. Its shoulders in each case are fitted with holes/rivets for a short strap to attach the backplate, and its lower edge extends outwards to receive a fault. It also features rivet holes at each end to secure the fauld, remains of a lance rest, and on the lower left, a folding hinge to attach a backplate, the right missing (inv. no. 241). Height: 18 in.
Discussion: Helmets and breastplates are the most sought-after by collectors and people looking for a unique decoration of historical value. Helmets are the earliest form of body armor. Both aristocratic knights and simple infantrymen used them. Helmets are the most difficult item to make in a suit of armor. Because of their elegance, workmanship, and symbolism of power and chivalry, helmets are readily accepted by most as works of art, even by non-collectors. The breastplate is second only to the helmet. Even a person who knows very little about Arms and Armor will recognize a Medieval/Renaissance helmet or breastplate. If you collect greaves (see pages 122-BB and 123-BB in my book), few people may know what they are or find them aesthetically pleasing. Like a fine statue, breastplates display well on flat surfaces such as shelves, tables, or desks. Breastplates are also displayed easily on the wall, like a fine painting.
Provenance:
-The Duke of Osuna.
-Peter Finer
-Andrew Garcia
Publication: The Collectors Course On Medieval Arms and Armor,2021, Garcia, page 172.
Conclusion: Early breastplates such as this, with exceptional provenances and superb condition, seldom make it to the collector’s market. Here is an opportunity to own a Gothic breastplate from the golden era of Arms and Armor.
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