Spanish Style Breastplate | 16th Century Toledo Armour Replica
Are you looking for the perfect centrepiece for your great hall, study, or a sophisticated addition to a historical costume where elegance takes precedence over combat? This breastplate, inspired by 16th and 17th-century Spanish armour, is designed to capture the imagination. Produced by the world-renowned Marto® brand in Toledo, Spain—a city synonymous with legendary steel craftsmanship—this piece brings the era of conquistadors and pikemen vividly to life. Further product information ...
Would you like to be notified as soon as the item is in stock?
You will receive a short e-mail as soon as we have it back in stock.
Spanish Style Breastplate | 16th Century Toledo Armour Replica | Marto
Decorative Armour with Historical Soul
This breastplate (the front plate of a cuirass) is crafted from mild steel sheet with a thickness of approx. 0.8 mm (21-22 gauge). It is crucial for you to understand that this is primarily a decorative item. Due to the gauge of the metal, this armour is not suitable for full-contact historical fencing, buhurt, Battle of the Nations, or heavy reenactment combat. It serves excellently as:
- Wall Décor: It creates a stunning focal point in any interior, evoking history and nobility.
- Prop Use: Perfect for theatre, film, or static display where visual authenticity is key.
- Light Costume: You can wear this for parades, photoshoots, or non-combat LARP roles. For your comfort, I strongly recommend wearing a padded gambeson or arming doublet underneath to prevent chafing and improve the fit.
Design and Heritage
The shape of this cuirass reflects the military fashion of the late Renaissance and Early Modern period. It features a distinct central ridge. Historically, this ridge was not merely aesthetic; it served to strengthen the plate structurally and, more importantly, to deflect lance points and sword blades away from the centre of the chest. The bottom edge flares outwards slightly, a design feature known as a flange, which allowed the wearer greater mobility at the waist. Owning a piece from Toledo connects you to a centuries-old tradition of European armour making.
Technical Specifications
| Material | Mild Steel |
| Thickness | 0.8 mm (approx. 21 gauge) |
| Height | approx. 45 cm (17.7 inches) |
| Width | approx. 39 cm (15.4 inches) |
| Weight | approx. 2700 g (6 lbs) |
| Manufacturer | Marto, Toledo (Spain) |
Care Instructions
To ensure this splendid piece remains rust-free and shiny, a little maintenance is required:
- Protection: Regularly apply a coat of maintenance oil (such as WD-40 or mineral oil) to the surface. This creates a barrier against moisture and oxidation.
- Storage: Keep the breastplate in a dry environment. If displayed on a wall, dust it occasionally and re-apply oil.
- Cleaning: If surface rust appears, it can be removed with a fine abrasive pad or metal polish. Avoid harsh wire wool, which may scratch the smooth finish.
To display this item properly, you might want to consider adding a wooden armour stand to your order.
We are here for you!