German Breastplate 1450–1500

Description of the Product

Breastplates were used as protection already by the Romans and the Greeks, and were made of leather or bronze. Plate armor was, however, expensive and difficult to make, and was replaced by chainmail and other types of protection. During middle-ages with the development of steel manufacturing, plate armor again became the armor of choice. Wealthier knights started using plate armor during the 14th Century and the last half of the 15th Century saw plate armor reach its apex in beauty, form and function. However plate armor stayed expensive and at no point was available to all soldiers.

14th and 15th century medieval plate armor is roughly categorized into Italian style and German style armor. These were the two leading armor development and manufacturing hotspots in Europe, and their designs and styles were copied even if the manufacturing and use happened somewhere else within Europe. Italian style armor was stylistically smooth and round and German style had grooves, flutes, sharp turns and peaks in it. Smooth and round armor deflects blows easily away, whereas ridges and grooves give steel more strength and integrity. Naturally the visual style also meant a lot to rich medieval knights, who wanted to look fashionable and wear the style of clothing and armor they liked the best.

Gothic-style armor was developed in the Holy Roman Empire (in the area of modern-day Germany) during the first half of the 15th century, mirroring Gothic architecture with its arches, sharp silhouettes and vertical lines. The grooves, curves, and ridges in the armor, in addition to decorativeness, provided structural stability, and shielded the wearer from arrows, swords and daggers deflecting blows away from their target. The name “gothic” originates in Italy during the Renaissance to describe the architectural art of the “barbarians” or Goths. This "barbarous German style" was used not only in buildings but also in armor.

A good breastplate was worn not only in battle, but also in court or other social events by noblemen, soldiers and knights. Combined with armored arms and legs, it makes an excellent outfit for heavy infantry.

• Weight approx. 3.4 kg
• Made from 1.2 mm carbon steel. Steel thickness may vary due to the handcrafted methods used in manufacturing.
• Central buckle for securing a gorget
• Adjustable leather straps and brass buckles for a secure fit
• One size fits most
• The faulds protecting the waist and hip move freely up when you for example kneel or sit on top of your horse. This is important for functionality and ease of use.
• Made by Marshall Historical