The late 16th/early 17th century Italian breast plate is of shot-proof weight with several small dimples and a few larger dents where a projectile has struck the armor (possible battle damage). The breast plate has an iron cross design in the center which appears to be the Order of Santo Stefano. The anime back plate is late 16th/early 17th. The pair of early 17th century cuirassier pauldrons are German and are decorated with a number of brass coated iron rivets in a circular pattern with engraved circles between them. The close helmet skull is composed of several pieces with spot welds holding them together. There are two horizontal vision slits in the visor, breathing ventilation holes in the ventail and 2 red feather plumes in a plume holder at the back. Two spring loaded buttons are present for opening and closing the helmet and ventail. The sabatons are plain. Mitten gauntlets hold a 16th century style halberd with a 29 inch head, a 71 inch angular wooden shaft and has an overall length of 100 inches. This suit stands 72 inches tall x 24 inches wide x 19 inches deep and has a plain black painted wooden stand measuring 12 1/2 inches tall x 19 inches wide x 19 inches deep. Provenance: The William Ashby Collection

Good, there is scattered minor and moderate pitting overall with areas of discoloration. There are a number of small dings overall. Some of the lames at the bottom front of the breast plate are separating. The top lame and coulet on the anime back plate are replacements. There are some later elements that have been added to fill in the harness. The rear plate of the gorget is cracked at the center rivet. There are two replaced lames on one pauldron and there is some minor deformation at the edge and a couple cracks. The halberd has a broken tip and has scattered pitting with an aged patina. The shaft has some scratches.