Medieval Suits of Armor

[Dept of PMM Artists & things]

Suits of Armor changed dramatically over the centuries of the middle ages. This was an arms race that was determined predominantly by the advancements of metalworking and blacksmithing skills.



The three major types of suits of armor:

When it comes to complete suits of armor one way that they are categorized is strictly by function. And when it comes to function there are three different types: 1. Field Armor that was meant to be used during actual combat, 2. Ceremonial armor and 3. Jousting armor. As you can probably figure out all three of these functions meant changes in the armor.

1. Field armor: This was worn in combat so it had to be light and flexible so the knight had good mobililty, yet it had to be as strong as possible.

2. Ceremonial armor: This was meant for ceremonies so it would often be adorned with silver, gold, copper and cloth. How it looked was more important than how much protection it offered. Yet, ease of motion was still very important.

3. Jousting or Tournament Armor: This armor was made for maximum defense often at the expense of mobility. When a knight was mounted on a horse he had very little need for mobility. One of the predominant characteristics of this was an over sized and curved guard on the left shoulder to ward off an opponents lance.

This 'Milanese' full-harness displays the characteristic robust and rounded appearance of armour produced in northern Italy throughout the 15th century. Armour of this type incorporates large and smooth glancing surfaces in its construction, the theory being that these rounded surfaces would help to deflect an opponents weapons. ; ; The embossed ridges and fluting that typify armour of the Gothic style are generally absent in Milanese style armour. Other typical Milanese features include mail sabatons (foot protection) and mitten gauntlets. Many of the parts that compose our Milanese armour, including the T-face barbute helm, are based on the 'Avant' armour that is housed in the Kelvingrove Museum, Glasgow. This near-complete harness was made at the Corio workshop in Milan, and dates from around 1440. ; ; Included with the armour are the mail skirt, standard and voiders pictured, featuring Wedge Rivets and Flat Ring construction.

Our amazingly detailed, six-foot-tall, full-sized medival suit on a museum mount is crafted from quality designer resin and finished in faux silver and brass. So realistic that it even features faux chain mail, faux leather strapping and a hinged helmet that opens, it embodies the chivalry of the Renaissance and the ancient art of armor. Wielding a nearly seven-foot-tall halberd, this work of decorative art is fit for a king! 22.5"Wx18"Dx72"H. 60 lbs.

Italian armour was highly prized for incredible detailing and superior style! Our superb reproduction of Gothic Armour is crafted in the styling tradition of those master craftsmen who created the originals for Kings and Knights throughout Europe. This suit has a highly sought after blued finish which gives this armour a very authentic appearance and features metal skirting encircling the back, (no fake velvet here!), which allows you to stand this armour in the middle of a room, for a great view from all sides if desired. The armour comes complete with stand and halberd. See the difference between a suit of armour from Italy and others made elsewhere, there is no comparison in styling. 7' high to top of halberd, 6' to top of helm.

Italian armour has been highly sought after throughout the centuries by Knights and Nobility in Europe. Our superb reproduction of Medieval Armour is crafted in the styling tradition of those master craftsmen who created the origina for kings and their soldiers. This suit of wearable articulated armour has a highly desired blued plate finish duplicating the appearance of the medieval originals that can be seen today in museum collections around the world. This exquisitely crafted blued steel armour stands about 6-1/2 foot tall on a quality wood base. Complete with sword and stand.




Here is a common list of the parts of a suit of armor:

Helmet:Protected the head. Was often placed over some type of protection like a chainmail coif.
Coif: A piece of head protection that was worn under the helmet. It was usually made of chainmail material.
Cuirass or Breastplate: Covered the chest and was worn over a cloth or chainmail undergarment.
Gauntlets: used to protect the hands,wrists and forearms. They were very intricately made in order to maximize mobility of the hands while still giving good protection.
Arm Armor: carefully made to protect the arms yet provide free movement at the shoulders and elbows.
Leggings: Covered the legs and as in the arm pieces they were made to offer maximum coverage and flexibility.
Foot Wear: covered the feet
Gorget:Worn around the neck to protect the weak area between the breastplate and the helmet.





The Art Of Mail Armor: How to Make Your Own

Picture yourself in a full set of shining mail armor at your next reenactment, fair or costume party. And the best part is that you can say you made it yourself. The Art of Mail Armor shows you how to start with a piece of wire and end with a finished garment that costs a fraction of what it would ready-made and fits perfectly because it was custom made just for you. The book features seven original patterns from the author and step-by-step diagrams and instructions for attractive coifs (head coverings), hauberks (shirts), gauntlets, (gloves) and bishop's collars, as well as juggling balls, necklaces, belts, crosses and other jewelry. Find out how easy it is to assemble your tool kit and materials; acquire the best wire for specific items; measure for a perfect fit; join, enlarge, round, angle and fit sleeves; and incorporate decorative trimmings and inlays to make your designs truly unique. Also learn some quick and easy tricks for keeping your pieces clean and shiny - with no scrubbing or expensive commercial cleaners. Whether you are a Renaissance or medieval enthusiast, reenactor, historian, martial artist, jewelry designer or just someone with an interest in armor, you'll want to add this book to your library. Even experienced mail makers will find new ideas and techniques.

[Dept of PMM Artists & things]