Cuirass
1700/50
Steel, brass, silver-gilt bradding, silk textile, and leather
SEE IT IN PERSON
● On view now — Gallery 239
Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · verified July 2026
Discussion
FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG
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.
Be the first to share your thoughts.
Sign in to join the discussion.
More by French
Head of a Woman
Altarpiece from Thuison-les-Abbeville: Saint Hugh of Lincoln
Panels from the High Altar of the Charterhouse of Saint-Hono
Portrait of a Young Man
Altarpiece from Thuison-les-Abbeville: Saint Honoré
Altarpiece from Thuison-les-Abbeville: The Ascension
Panels from the High Altar of the Charterhouse of Saint-Hono
The Nymph of FontainebleauMore like this
Northern German — Breastplate with Associated Fauld
Southern German, Nuremberg(?) — Backplate with Fauld
Spanish or northern Italian — Breastplate
Northern Italian — Breastplate with Associated Skirt for Hal
South German, Nuremberg — Breastplate
Italian (?), possibly German — Breastplate with Associated F
Southern German, Augsburg — Peytral and Lower Neck Defense o
North Italian, probably Milan — Breastplate
Western European — Boy's Armor
Italian — Backplate
North Italian, probably Milan — Breastplate
German — Reinforcing Breastplate