Besagew (Rondelle)
Mid-16th century
Physical Qualities
Steel and gold, 6 3/4 in. (17.1 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Saidie A. May
Object Number
1945.7
Part of a full suit of armor, this metal rondelle, called a "besagew," served to guard the armpit of a warrior from injury. Mounted in front of the chain mail between the shoulder plates, it provided an extra layer of protection. Of particular note is the refinement of the decoration, which embellishes the curved steel plate. The fine designs, suggesting floral motifs, have been overlaid with gold in a process called damascene. The terms takes its name from the Syrian city of Damascus, where such craftsmanship flourished.
BMA, "Diamonds in the Rough: Seldom Seen Objects from the BMA's Collection," June 20-August 13, 1989.
The Taste of Maryland: Art Collecting in Maryland, 1830-1934. [Baltimore, MD]: [Walters Art Gallery], 1984, plate 82, page 47.
On View: Jacobs, Gallery 6