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19th Century Victorian Monumental Silver Plated Parade Shield, Elkington c.1880

About the Item

Antique 19th Century Victorian silver plated Elkington made parade shield, made after the 1552 original by Jorg Sigman. This shield is a work of art, made for display rather than battle. In the 16th century, armor served more than just a protective function for warfare and tournaments; it was a symbol of prestige, worn during parades, royal processions, and other ceremonial occasions to reflect the wealth, status, and grandeur of noble families. This shield, in particular, is ornately decorated with scenes from Roman history, and at its center features a high-relief depiction of Medusa’s head. According to legend, Perseus, after slaying the terrifying Medusa—whose gaze could turn enemies to stone—gifted her severed head to Athena, the Goddess of War. Athena fixed it onto her shield so that it would face her enemies. Jörg Sigman (ca. 1527–1601) was the most renowned German goldsmith known for embellishing armor. At a young age, Sigman was enlisted by the famous armorer Desiderius Colman Helmschmid to work on an armor for Prince Philip, who would later become Philip II of Spain—an early indication of his extraordinary talent. As firearms became more prominent in warfare during the latter half of the 16th century, armorers focused on creating stronger, more practical body armor that protected only the vital areas—head and torso. In contrast, parade armor became increasingly ornamental, serving more as a display of artistic craftsmanship than functional defense. This shield exemplifies that shift; while aesthetically stunning, its artistic elements compromise its effectiveness as actual armor. The original shield may have been part of a Rustkammer, or armory treasury, established by princes in the 16th century to display their wealth and intellectual prowess. These armories were the precursors to modern museums. Notable examples include the Schloss Ambras in Innsbruck and the Real Armería in Madrid, which Philip II founded in 1565 to honor his father, Emperor Charles V, and showcase their military legacy. CONDITION In Great Condition - Wear expected with age. Please refer to photographs. SIZE Diameter: 80 cm // 31.50 in Depth: 12 cm // 4.72 in
  • Creator:
    Elkington & Co. (Maker)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 4.73 in (12 cm)Diameter: 31.5 in (80 cm)
  • Style:
    Other (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Silver Plate
  • Place of Origin:
    United Kingdom
  • Period:
    19th Century
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1880
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor fading. In Great Condition - Wear expected with age. Please refer to photographs.
  • Seller Location:
    Royal Tunbridge Wells, GB
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: A101971stDibs: LU1348241887102

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