16th Century Cuirass with Tassets, 1.6 mm Steel

16th Century Cuirass with Tassets, 1.6 mm Steel

Historical Context and Inspiration

This type of cuirass with attached tassets represents the typical torso and thigh protection used by European soldiers during the 16th century. It was an age of renaissance but also of constant military conflict, where plate armour continued to evolve to provide the best possible protection against new types of weapons while not overly restricting the soldier's mobility. Similar armour could be worn by both infantrymen, such as the feared Landsknechts, as well as light and heavy cavalry. The design, combining a solid cuirass with flexible, articulated tassets, was a proven compromise between protection and movement.

Construction and Use

The entire set is carefully crafted from approximately 1.6 mm thick steel. It consists of an anatomically shaped breastplate and a backplate, which are connected at the shoulders and sides with sturdy, adjustable leather straps and steel buckles. Two articulated tassets attach to the bottom of the breastplate with their own straps. These thigh guards are made of several overlapping plates riveted together, allowing them to move and not hinder walking or sitting on a horse. This armour is an excellent choice for:

• Historical re-enactment and living history events
• LARP (Live Action Role Play) for characters like knights, mercenaries, or soldiers
• Cosplay and theatrical performances
• A decorative piece for an interior with a historical theme

Please note: This is a replica of historical armour and is not certified as personal protective equipment. It is not intended for full-contact combat such as buhurt (HMB), Battle of the Nations, etc. For these activities, we recommend armour specifically designed and tested for extreme stress.

Specifications

Care Instructions

To ensure your new plate armour serves you for a long time and retains its shine, proper care is essential. Dry it thoroughly after each use to prevent rust. We recommend regularly treating the steel parts with a thin layer of protective oil (e.g., WD-40 or Ballistol). Treat the leather straps with leather care products to keep them supple and prevent them from cracking. Store the armour in a dry place. Do not leave it in a damp environment, and do not use aggressive chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surface.