Brass Greaves

Description of the Product

Greaves were a part of the complete war outfit of heavy infantry long before the Common Era. They were constructed of materials ranging from padded cloth to metal plate and they protected either only the lower leg or extended upwards to protect the thigh as well. The greaves were usually worn on both legs, like the Greek Hoplites such as the famous Spartans did. Roman Centurions wore greaves on both legs but in the Roman Republican period, legionaries were known to wear protection only on their left, leading leg.

The Greeks used greaves like these ca. from 6th to 3rd century BCE as part of the panoply, or full armour. The Romans also used bronze greaves ca. from the 4th century BCE to the 2nd century CE. Bronze greaves were naturally also used by other Italic tribes and people living in the area. Bronze greaves traveled all the way to India with the army of Alexander the Great.

Like the originals, these replicas are simply slightly bent open and then clamped over the lower leg. They remain in position without a need for buckles or straps. They have a leather edge and are lined with soft felt.

• Made of brass
• Overall length: approx. 52 cm
• Length at the back from ankle to below the knee: approx. 39 cm
• Weight per pair: approx. 1.9 kg
• Leather edge and felt lining
• Sold as a pair