The medieval Avant Armour is a star object from our Arms and Armour collection. It is the oldest near-complete armour in the world, dated circa 1440.
The Milanese Field armour is known as ‘Avant’ because this word – meaning Forward! – is inscribed on its breastplate.
The armour is in almost perfect condition and is part of Glasgow's exceptional RL Scott collection.
Scott purchased the Avant Armour from eccentric newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst in 1938.
Milanese Armour
Corio Workshop
Circa 1445
Steel
Size 1680mm x 745mm x 485mm
Number E.1939.65.e
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