Effigy of a Knight at the V&A, London

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This impressive effigy portrays a fully armored knight. Several similar tombs still stand in Venice, Verona, and Padua. The effigy would have been angled upwards on its side closest to the wall, making it easier to view from below. The fact that the deceased is depicted in full armor as a knight indicates his social status - comparable effigies represent individuals known to have held military leadership positions or served as condottiere (mercenaries), such as Federico da Lavellongo's tomb in Padua. It is a rare survival of Venetian sculpture outside Venice and provides valuable insight into knightly attire during this period, with the armor rendered accurately. The recumbent effigy rests on a draped bier. A bascinet adorned with an eventail that hangs a solid nasal sits atop its head. The figure wears a jupon decorated with three chains on its breast and arm-guards and hour-glass gauntlets. Tasselled cushions support the head and feet. Location: This object is displayed in Medieval & Renaissance, Room 50a of The Paul and Jill Ruddock Gallery's case FS. This object is part of "Scan The World", a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory that aims to create a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from around the globe for public access. Scan The World is an open-source community effort; if you have interesting items nearby and would like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to learn how you can assist. Courtesy of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.