Gothic Cuirass "Fleur-de-lis" with Tassets, 1.2 mm Steel

Gothic Cuirass "Fleur-de-lis" with Tassets, 1.2 mm Steel

Detailed Description and Construction

This replica of a late medieval harness is carefully crafted from 1.2 mm (18 gauge) steel plate. It consists of several key parts that together form a functional and aesthetic whole:

• Breastplate (Cuirass): It is anatomically shaped and adorned with a central lily motif and typical Gothic fluting. The lower section features three articulated lames (faulds) to protect the waist and abdomen while allowing free movement and bending at the torso.
• Backplate: It is distinguished by its elaborate, fan-like fluting and a wide, two-part culet that effectively protects the lower back and buttocks. The edges of the plates are finished with filigree work, a characteristic feature of Gothic armour.
• Tassets: Two separate tassets, designed to protect the thighs, are easily attached to the bottom edge of the breastplate using leather straps and buckles.

The entire cuirass is held together with robust and adjustable leather straps with steel buckles at the shoulders and sides. This allows the size to be easily adjusted to your build and any underlying garments, such as a gambeson or maille shirt. The inside of the armour is coated with black paint for protection against corrosion.

History and Use

The Gothic style of plate armour reached its zenith in the 15th century, particularly in the German and Italian lands. This style is characterised by its slender lines, sharp angles, and extensive use of fluting. These grooves not only decorated the armour but also increased its structural strength and ability to deflect cuts and thrusts without significantly increasing its weight. This cuirass is the perfect accessory for portraying a knight, mercenary, or nobleman at LARP, cosplay events, theatrical performances, or historical festivals.

Please note: Although this cuirass is fully wearable and robust, it is made from 1.2 mm thick steel. It is therefore not designed or certified for full-contact combat, buhurt, or other forms of heavy fighting. It is primarily a costume and decorative piece of armour.

Care of the Product

To ensure your plate armour serves you for a long time and retains its shine, give it proper care. Dry it thoroughly after each use and treat the outside with a thin layer of preservative oil (e.g., WD-40 or Ballistol). Store the armour in a dry, well-ventilated place. Avoid long-term storage in damp environments like basements, which could lead to rust. Do not use aggressive chemicals or abrasive sponges for cleaning, as they could scratch the surface.

Technical Specifications

Specifications may vary slightly from piece to piece due to handmade nature.

Important Sizing Note

When choosing the correct size, remember that plate armour is typically worn over other layers, such as a gambeson or a maille shirt. Therefore, always take your measurements (chest and waist circumference) while wearing these underlayers to ensure a proper fit.