Milanese Style Plate Leg Armour, 15th Century, 1.5 mm Steel
Clad yourself in a full set of plate leg protection in the famous Milanese style that dominated the battlefields of Europe at the turn of the 14th and 15th centuries. This fully articulated leg armour is crafted from robust 1.5 mm steel, and its design emphasizes large, smooth, and rounded surfaces. These shapes were engineered to deflect slashing and thrusting attacks most effectively and to distribute their energy. This armour is ideal for anyone building a historically accurate harness of a knight or man-at-arms. Further product information ...
Milanese Style Plate Leg Armour, 15th Century, 1.5 mm Steel
Who Is This Leg Armour For?
Complete protection for the legs is essential for any frontline warrior. This armour is perfect for:
- Historical Reenactment and Combat: If your goal is to portray a knight from the period of the Hundred Years' War or the battles of the early 15th century, this armour is precisely for you.
- LARP Battles: Grant your character maximum protection from the thigh to the ankle, lending them the authenticity and prestige that a full plate leg harness brings.
- HEMA and Tournaments: Thanks to its full articulation, this armour allows you free movement during combat while reliably protecting your legs from strikes.
Historical Context and Design
The Milanese style of armour, developed in Northern Italy, became the absolute benchmark for quality and design at the end of the 14th century. Unlike the later German Gothic style, which used sharp ridges and fluting, Milanese armourers focused on smooth, rounded shapes. They believed such surfaces would better deflect blows and minimize the chance of an opponent's blade catching on the armour. This harness consists of a cuisse (thigh guard), a poleyn (knee cop) with its characteristic side fan, and a greave (shin guard). All parts are connected by loose rivets, ensuring fluid and natural movement.
A Tidbit from History
Although this style was developed in Milan, its popularity and quality were so immense that armour from Milanese workshops was exported all over Europe. The masters of Milan produced armour for the highest nobility of England, France, and the Holy Roman Empire. The design of these particular legs shares key features with a famous surviving harness made for the young King Charles VI of France around 1390, which is now preserved in the city of Chartres. This demonstrates just how international and influential this style was in its time.
Technical Specifications
This pair of plate legs is handcrafted for maximum durability and functionality. It is a quality product by Lord of Battles®.
- Style: Milanese, late 14th - early 15th century
- Material: 1.5 mm (16 gauge) mild steel
- Size: L
- Overall Height: approx. 47 cm (~18.5 in)
- Knee Fan Dimensions: approx. 17 x 11 cm (~6.7 x 4.3 in)
- Weight (Pair): approx. 5.4 kg (~11.9 lbs)
- Attachment: System of adjustable leather straps with steel buckles
- Finish: Polished steel, with a blackened interior for corrosion resistance
For maximum comfort, we recommend wearing this armour over padded chausses or leggings.
How to Care for Your Armour
Keep your armour in the best possible condition. After each use, wipe it dry and store it in a dry place. Regularly apply a thin layer of preservative oil to the steel plates to prevent rust. Pay special attention to the riveted joints. Treat the leather straps with a suitable leather care product to keep them strong and supple.
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