Pageant Shield

This circular rondache shield, together with a burgonet helmet, a vambrace (protection for the lower arm) and gauntlet, belongs to a set of armour that was most probably created in a Milanese workshop in the 1560s. The armour was owned by the celebrated Venetian military commander Ascanio Sforza Pallavicino (1522–1577). Pallavicino was at various times in the service of Emperor Charles V and Pope Paul III. He governed Parma and Piacenza and fought in France against the Huguenots, distinguishing himself at the Siege of Poitiers and the Battle of Moncontour, for which King Henry III awarded him 27 captured enemy banners. The decoration of the condottiero’s armour was done to a very high artistic standard. All the pieces are covered with exquisite plant ornament executed in the damascening (gold wire inlay) technique. They carry a depiction of a seven-headed hydra, a symbol of Venice’s maritime might, and Pallavicino’s Latin motto – UT CUMQ[UE], meaning “Come what may”.
We can assume that this set of armour was used as parade wear during grand public appearances and carnivals and when returning home after a victory. It is not impossible that the owner only ever commissioned these parts of the set from the armourer and that he would have worn them over a fine-looking cloak.