Workshops of Wolf and Peter von Speyer or Wolf Peppinghorn; Rennzeug (Armor for the “Joust of War”), about 1590-1600; steel, iron, leather, black paint, textile and horsehair stuffing; Worcester Art Museum, The John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection, 2014.1154 Credit: Telfair Museums
Age of Armor Film Series

A Knight’s Tale – 6 p.m. Thursday, July 13: To kick off the film series, Telfair Museum will show a film that highlights armor and tournaments. Heath Ledger stars as a peasant squire who creates a new identity as a knight, along the way encountering the Black Prince, the subject of one of Telfair’s iconic paintings.

Monty Python and the Holy Grail – 6 p.m. Thursday, July 20: One of the funniest films of all time, in which the Pythons skewer Arthurian legend. 

The Green Knight – 6 p.m. Thursday, July 27: David Lowery’s acclaimed retake on the tale of Sir Gawain. The moody fantasy was widely noted for its cinematography and Dev Patel’s acting as Gawain.

Telfair Museums in Savannah presents “The Age of Armor: Treasures from the Higgins Armory Collection at the Worcester Art Museum,” a highly anticipated exhibition that invites visitors to step into a journey through the remarkable era of knights and armor. Running from June 23 to October 9, 2023, at The Jepson Center, this exhibition offers a unique opportunity to explore the historical significance and masterful craftsmanship behind these iconic artifacts.

Acquired by the Worcester Art Museum in 2014, the rare and enchanting Higgins Armory Collection is now on display at Telfair Museums, providing a glimpse into the world of knights and the evolution of armor. The exhibition showcases a range of armor pieces, from full suits to individual components and weapons, shedding light on the artistry and technological advancements of the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

Helmet, Close Helmet for the Foot Tourney, about 1590 steel (once blued) with etching and gilding, and brass; The John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection, 2014.1113 Credit: Telfair Museums

Visitors can immerse themselves in this captivating journey, tracing the history of armor and its influence on European culture. The collection offers insights into the ingenuity and skill required for metalworking during this period, presenting a tangible link to the past.

Elyse Gerstenecker, Ph.D., curator of decorative arts at Telfair Museums, spoke about the significance of the exhibition, stating, “‘Age of Armor’ provides an opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship and cultural context of this iconic period in history.”

In addition to the exhibition, Telfair Museums has curated a series of events to enhance the visitor experience. The Telfair Members Reception and lecture, taking place on June 22 at 6 p.m., offers an exclusive opportunity for guests to engage with experts and gain deeper insights into the historical and artistic aspects of the armor collection.

Nagasone Tojiro Mitsumasa Helmet; Helmet in the form of a Sea Conch Shell, 1618 iron with traces of lacquer, textiles; The John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection Credit: Telfair Museums

Families are invited to mark their calendars for the Free Family Day on August 19, where interactive activities and educational displays will engage children and adults, allowing them to delve into the world of knights and armor.

To further enrich the experience, the “Age of Armor” film series will be held at the Jepson Center throughout July. Each Thursday evening, moviegoers can enjoy knight-themed films, including “A Knight’s Tale,” “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” and “The Green Knight,” providing a cinematic glimpse into the thrilling tales of knighthood.

Shaffron (Horse’s Head Armor) in the Maximilian Style, Southern German, about 1520; steel; Worcester Art Museum, The John Woodman Higgins Armor Collection, 2014.16 Credit: Telfair Museums

The Age of Armor Film Series is complimentary for Telfair Museum members, while nonmembers can attend for a fee of $8. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.telfair.org/exhibitions/age-of-armor/.

“The Age of Armor: Treasures from the Higgins Armory Collection at the Worcester Art Museum” exhibition is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those intrigued by the legendary world of knights. Experience the artistry, historical significance, and technological advancements of this captivating era at Telfair Museums.

This article appears in Jun 1-30, 2023.