Mitten Gauntlet for the Left Hand
c. 1520
Medium
Steel, brass, and leather
Dimensions
H.: 27.9 cm (11 in.)
Classification
suit-gauntlet
Department
Applied Arts of Europe
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
116607
Art Historical Context
This mitten gauntlet for the left hand, dating to around 1520, offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of European armor during a period of both conflict and artistic refinement. Crafted from steel plates, brass accents, and leather components, this piece from a suit of armor measures just under 28 centimeters and was designed to shield the wearer's hand while permitting essential movement. Unlike fingered gauntlets, the mitten style enclosed the fingers together for greater protection in close combat. As part of the Applied Arts of Europe collection, it reflects the high level of metalwo...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...