Breastplate
South German, 1580


On the right side of this breastplate is a large crucifix, with a skull and crossbones at its foot, signifying the Christian triumph over death. On the left side kneels a man-at-arms, his hands raised in prayer. His halberd leans against his shoulder; his helmet is set on the ground at his left knee. He is dressed in the armor typically worn by an officer of the Landsknecht, German mercenary foot soldiers. This breastplate probably was worn by an officer much like the one in the engraving.