Half Armor, France, circa 1590 Rear view

This armor is a particularly remarkable and rare testament to the technique of painted suits of armor, which were apparently in fashion and produced in France from the end of the 16th century. The vertical bands that cover the surface of the parts entirely contain foliage wreaths, trophies, and palm seedlings, which are all typical motifs of the time. An original polychrome combining red, black, and gilding covers all of the component elements of the suit of armor, and is also found in the fabrics and embroidery used in full formal pomp.
Depending on the attire, in addition to being confirmed by an additional chamfer, the equine protection also featured the same decoration as its rider's armor. The pauldrons and gauntlets are, however, missing. On the other hand, greaves and sabotons were no longer used very often by the end of the 16th century, and had been replaced by a robust pair of leather boots.
Without knowing the official recipient of this wonderful suit of armor, we can say that it comes from the Le Veneur de Tillières family, which was associated with Captain Rouen Tanneguy le Veneur (who died in 1592) and his son Jacques (who died in 1596), who occupied the role of Lieutenant General in Normandy.