Armor 1475 - 1900

This imposing suit of armor was crafted by Heilig Jörg, sometime between the late 15th and early 16th centuries. It embodies the cultural and psychological weight of the era. The most striking symbol here is the very form of the armor itself. The steel encasement echoes earlier protective deities, like the Greek god Hephaestus' forging of Achilles' shield in the "Iliad." This protective layer, meant to defend against physical threats, is reminiscent of how ancient cultures employed shields. The roundels on the shoulders, for example, are similar to symbolic solar discs, which were talismans of divine protection. We see a continuation of these forms across cultures, each society imbuing them with their own unique meaning. Think of the emotional resonance armor carries. It stirs deep-seated feelings of protection, strength, and even fear. It represents humanity's enduring quest for safety and dominance, a quest that transcends time and culture.