Development of Amour: Timeline

Egypt-WWII

By Kelsey-Lynn du Toit
2014
1
Table of Contents:
1. Egypt: 3000-950 BC 4-16
2. Mesopotamia
2.1 Sumerian, Akkadian: 3000-2000 BC 17-25
2.2 Assyrian, Persian: 1500 -300 BC 26-39
3. Greek: 600-100 BC 39-54
4. Roman: 500 BC- 330 55-71
5. Byzantine: 400-1100 72-84
6. Medieval
6.1 Romanesque: 900-1200 85-98
6.2 Gothic: 1200-1450 99-117
2
Table of Contents:
7. Renaissance: 1480-1600 118-130
8. Elizabethan: 1560-1620 131-141
9. Baroque: 1620-1700 142-149
10. Rococo: 1700-1790 150-156
11. French Revolution: 1798-1815 157-163
12. Victorian: 1840-1890 164-176
13. Edwardian: 1900-1915
13.1 WWI: 1914-1918 177-186
13.2 WWII: 1939-1945 187-196

Bibliography 197-203

3
Egyptian Armour
3000- 2300 BC
4
Ancient Egyptian warriors wore minimal non-protective clothing during combat due
to the extreme heat
Typical Body Armour included;
Loin cloths
Bare feet
Bare chests
No head protection
The Pharaoh's Body Armour during combat is predictably different to the soldiers.
The chariot itself served as protection for his legs
A form of protective leather strapping is worn for the upper body
Head gear was also worn to depict his authority as well as serve as partial protection
(Shields, Helmets and Body Armor: online)


5
1. Egypt: 3000-950 BC
1.1 Body Armour
1. Egypt: 3000-950 BC
1.1 Body Armour
Figure 1.1.1: Clay Models of Ancient Egyptian Foot Soldiers. [online image] available
from : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Military_of_ancient_Egypt [accessed 23 March 2014]

6
7
Figure 1.1.2 Egyptian soldiers. [online image] Available from:
http://www.arthursclipart.org/egypt/egypt/soldiers%20pre%20bc.gif [accessed 4
April 2014]
8











Figure 1.1.3 A Typical Depiction of a Pharaoh During Battle. [online image]
available at: http://www.theancientworld.net/images/egypt28.jpg [accessed 23
March 2014]
9
Figure 1.1.4 Re-enactment of a Pharaoh Riding into War on a Chariot. [online
image] available from: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/next/ancient/did-king-tut-
die-in-a-chariot-accident/ [accessed 23 March 2014]
1. Egypt: 3000-950 BC
1.2 Shields
10
Egyptians used flat wooden cut outs covered in hide and lined with metal where
available
Often round, or rectangular with a rounded top, a leather strap on the inner side
(Shields, Helmets and Body Armor: online)
The shields were small to start off with, designed to protect the head and the upper
body(Wilkinson, 1971:6)
11
Figure 1.2.1 An Example of Egyptian Soldiers Carrying Shields and Weapons.
[online image] available from:
http://eck6a.pbworks.com/w/page/35787067/Egypt_Research6a10526 [accessed 23
March 2014]
1. Egypt: 3000-950 BC
1.3 Weapons
12
(Wilkinson, 1971:7)
Early weapons were made of stone and flint , as well as metal which was introduced
during this period
Egyptians used the bow and arrow extensively in their warfare as well as daggers
and long spears
After the use of copper was introduced, simple swords known as a Khopesh became
commonly used
Primitive design battle axes were used, commonly made of flint or copper.

13
Figure 1.3.1Ancient Egyptian Shield and Typical Weapons. [online image] available
from: http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-
mqd1j0XZcvw/TqVp7E9QlKI/AAAAAAAAAhI/2Pf9uReyizY/s1600/Weaponry.pn
g [accessed 23 March 2014]
14
Figure 1.3.2 Egyptian Bow and Arrow Illustration. [online image] Available from:
http://www.bible-
history.com/ibh/images/fullsized/egyptian_arrow_and_arrowheads.gif [accessed 4
April 2014]
15
Figure 1.3.3 Egyptian Khopesh of Ramses II. [online image] available from:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f0/Egypte_louvre_132_arme.jpg
[accessed 23 March 2014]
16
Figure 1.3.4 Ancient Egyptian Battle Axe. [online image] Available from:
http://www.jwfacts.com/images/bronze-age-axe-1900bc.jpg [accessed 4 April 2014]
Mesopotamia
Sumerian and Akkadian Armour
3000-2300 BC
17
2.1 Mesopotamia: Sumeria, Akkad 3000-2000 BC
2.1.1 Body Armour
18
Although shields were used there is evidence in carvings showing that capes were
worn used as shield replacements (Wilkinson, 1978: 23)
The capes would presumably be made of leather and were lined in the inside with
bronze plates (Wilkinson, 1978: 23)
Little other protective armour was worn in order to avoid movement hindrance
Protective body armour was not yet introduced, chests were left open and tunics or
cotton clothing was worn due to the heat

19
Figure 2.1.1.1 Sumerian carving from Ur Depicting Soldiers in Studded Capes.
[online image] Available from:
http://namenookdotcom.files.wordpress.com/2011/07/ur-boys.jpg [accessed 4 April
2014]
2.1 Mesopotamia: Sumeria, Akkad 3000-2000 BC
2.1.2 Helmets
20
(Wilkinson, 1978:24)
A relief carving dated 2500 BC called The Stele of Vultures depicts soldiers in tight
fitting, presumably leather, helmets
These helmets are conical in shape, appear the have a nose guard and extend to
protect the neck

21
Figure 2.1.2.1 The stele of Vultures Relief Carving. [online image] Available from:
http://media.web.britannica.com/eb-media/90/4990-050-529E79AC.jpg [Accessed 4
April 2014]
2.1 Mesopotamia: Sumeria, Akkad 3000-2000 BC
2.1.3 Shields
22
The Sumerian battle tactics required high shields which covered the entire body
from ankle to neck (Wilkinson, 1978:23)
Due to the formation of closely packed bodies and their attack methods the
Sumerians soldiers required both hands to be free
Therefore, the shields hung around the neck of the soldier on thick leather straps
(Wilkinson, 1978:23)
This method cause restricted movement
As mentioned earlier, some soldiers wore protective capes in place of shields
23
Figure 2.1.3.1 Sumerian Soldier with Flat Rectangular Shield [online image]
Available from:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fh0pSw5z7XI/SoYwI5hVoNI/AAAAAAAAAZI/L6Mab
HO748o/s320/DC+Trip+08-09+048a.JPG [accessed 4 April 2014]
2.1 Mesopotamia: Sumeria, Akkad 3000-2000 BC
2.1.4 Weapons
24
The main weapon used by Sumerians and Akkadians was the spear
A war tactic known as the Phalanx called for groups of soldiers to advance with
spears readied in tight groups, forming a moving hedgehog type appearance
(Wilkinson 1978:23)
These groups would advance on the enemy with an unbreakable wall of shields and
a deadly wall of spears
25
Figure 2.1.4.1 The Phalanx Formation was Employed Through The Ages, Shown
Here By The Romans. [online image] Available from:
http://www.ancientbattles.com/MacPhotos/phalanx_JustinTaylor_BG_05.jpg
[accessed 4 April 2014]
Mesopotamia
Assyrian, Persian Armour
1500-600 BC
26
2.3 Mesopotamia: Assyria, Persia 1500-600 BC
2.3.1 Body Armour
27
Assyrians introduced the first forms of scale armor, a protective tunic with plates of
metal which overlapped (Wilkinson, 1971:11)
Breastplates of scale armor could extend to the waist, knee or ankle
Metal plates were used for the wealthier higher ranking officers as it was expensive
to manufacture
Thick leather discs sewn onto tunics was a common cheaper version.
28
Figure 2.2.1.1 Typical Assyrian Upper Body Protection. [online image] available from:
https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSv5oGPooXmHWAL-
kU_XCRhq7F6kmOu5l7t5kGNkm4rSDmAF7JR [accessed 1 April 2014]
29
Figure 2.2.1.2 Scale Armour Remains. [online image] Available from :
http://www.allaboutthebible.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Scale-armor1.jpg
[accessed 4 April 2014]
2.2 Mesopotamia: Assyria, Persia 1500-600 BC
2.2.2 Helmets
30
Helmets were forged of bronze and appeared in three shapes
Pointed helmets: a conical shape
Crested helmets: with horse hair crests
Round helmets

31
Figure 2.2.2.1 Assyrian Helmet Styles. [online image] Available from:
http://www.bible-history.com/ibh/images/fullsized/assyrian_helmets_layard.gif
[accessed 6 April 2014]
32
Figure 2.2.2.2 Assyrian Pointed Helmet. [online image] Available from:
http://i.imgur.com/mVXeG.png [accessed 6 April 2014]
33
Figure 2.2.2.3 Assyrian Crested Helmet. [online image] Available from:
http://bioblog3d.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Assyrian_Helmet.jpg [accessed 6
April 2014]
2.2 Mesopotamia: Assyria, Persia 1500-600 BC
2.2.3 Shields
34
Assyrians first introduced the convex shaped shield
The convex shaped was an innovation that prevented arrows or spears from sticking
in the shields but rather deflecting them as the shield was hit
Wooden shields were used and were often covered in a thin metal or leather layer
onto the wood
Assyrian and Persian shields are rectangular or round in shape
Sparabara: The shield barer for the archer (Hackett 1989)
35
Figure 2.2.3.1 Assyrian and Persian Shields. [online image] Available from:
http://www.bible-
history.com/ibh/images/fullsized/ancient_assyrian_persian_shields.gif [accessed
6April 2014]
2.2 Mesopotamia: Assyria, Persia 1500-600 BC
2.2.4 Weapons
36
Assyrians introduced the battering ram to warfare weaponry and tactics for forceful
entry into city gates (Wilkinson, 1971:11)
Archers with bows and arrows, and spearmen with long spears were common place
An important development was the extensive use of mounted soldiers with spears in
the Calvary (Wilkinson, 1978:25)
Chariots were larger than Egyptian chariots as well as heavier due to the increased
weight of protection (Wilkinson, 1971;11)
37
Figure 2.2.4.1 Line Drawing of a Relief of an Assyrian Battering Ram. [online
image] Available from:
http://nlife.ca/sermons/images/assyrians/Illustrerad_Verldshistoria_band_I_Ill_042r.j
pg [accessed 4 April.2014]
38
Figure 2.2.4.2 Relief Carving of the Mounted Soldiers. [online image] Available
from: http://www.chaldeansonline.org/photo/mesop11.jpg [Accessed 4 April 2014]
Greek Armour
600-100 BC
39
3.Greek: 600-100 BC
3.1 Body Armour
40
Greeks introduced a form of breast plates known as the Cuirass, or Bell Cuirass
The Cuirass : a solid bronze breast and back plate, ornately designed with muscles
(Wilkinson, 1978:28)
The Bell Cuirass: a simpler and plain version of the Cuirass
The breast plates were worn over a tunic to protect the body from chaffing during
battle
Greaves are protective metal plates shaped to the leg to provide extra protection,
which was introduced by the Greeks (Wilkinson, 1971:15)
Armour on the arms was not utilized in order to not hinder arm movement.
Pteruges refers to a leather skirt made of broad, thick leather straps to protect the
groin, often studded with metal at the ends
41
Figure 3.1.1 Greek Bell Cuirass. [online image] available from:
http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/295/1823/1600/muscled_1.jpg [accessed 4 April
2014]
42
Figure 3.1.2 Greek Cuirass and Chalcidian Helmet. [online image] available from:
http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4044/4388410619_817bb4cc85_o.jpg [accessed 4 April
2014]
43
Figure 3.1.3 Typical Full Greek Armour [online image] available from:
http://img140.imageshack.us/img140/1375/bosporanhoplitetb4.jpg [Accessed 4
April 2014]
3.Greek: 600-100 BC
3.2 Helmets
44
Corinthian Helmets (Wilkinson, 1978:27-28; Wilkinson, 1971:14)
Covered the full head and neck
Nasal bar to protect the nose and face
Openings for eyes and mouth
Ears were covered
Limited hearing and vision
Molded from a single piece of metal
Illyrian Helmet (Wilkinson, 1978:27-28; Wilkinson, 1971:14-15)
Forged from two pieces of metal and joined at the top
Triangular flaps were attached to the helmet to cover the cheeks
The face was more open and allowed better vision
The ears were however still covered and hearing was poor

3.Greek: 600-100 BC
3.2 Helmets
45
Chalcidian Helmet (Wilkinson, 1978:27-28; Wilkinson, 1971:14-15)
An improvement from the Corinthian helmet
Ears were exposed by the shape of the helmet
Nasal bar was shortened to improve vision
All helmets were padded for comfort and to allow the helmet to fit snuggly on
the head and prevent movement
Crests were worn on all three types, but not on every helmet.
Crests were made of horse hair and ranged from fairly small to large and elaborate
(Wilkinson, 1971:15)

46
Figure 3.2.1Corinthian Helmet Style. [online image] Available from:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6c/Corinthian_helmet_Denda_St
aatliche_Antikensammlungen_4330_n2.jpg [Accessed 4 April 2014]
47
Figure 3.2.2 Chalcidian Style Helmet. [online image] available from:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5b/Greek_-_Chalcidian-
Type_Helmet_-_Walters_542468.jpg [Accessed 4 April 2014
48
Figure 3.2.3 Illyrian Style Helmet. [online image] Available from:
http://www.mouginsmusee.com/img/art-
objects/57/11_bronze_illyrian_helmet_1024x0.jpg [Accessed 4 April 2014]
3.Greek: 600-100 BC
3.3 Shields
49
Greek shields were called a Hoplon (Wilkinson, 1978:28)
These were round, convex shields with a diameter of 3 feet (just under 1m)
Made of wood and bronze the Hoplon was extremely heavy
To allow for this the shield had a bronze strap in the middle for the left arm to go
through, and a leather strap on the edge for the left hand to grip on to (Wilkinson,
1978:28)
50
Figure 3.3.1 Greek/ Spartan Soldiers Carrying Hoplons. [online image] Available from:
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_VZYX6ZEBY8o/TKoCjMNLUiI/AAAAAAAAAnk/yrEYsDJ
xUyw/s1600/CG_deliver_greek_hoplite_shields_1.jpg [accessed 4 April 2014]
51
Figure 3.3.2 Support Straps Inside Hoplon. [online image] Available from:
http://www2.econ.iastate.edu/classes/econ355/choi/img/mun448.jpg [accessed 4
April 2014]
3.Greek: 600-100 BC
3.4 Weapons
52
Shields were used not only as a form of protection but as a weapon in fighting too.
Greeks primary weapon was a iron head spear (Wilkinson, 1978:29)
Each man carried between 1 - 3 spears, some used for throwing and others for hand
to hand combat (Wilkinson, 1978:29)
The Kopis is a sword used by the Greeks with a sharp curved blade (Wilkinson,
1978:31)
Slings, and Bow and arrows were less commonly used in battle
53
Figure 3.4.1 Spartan Kopis Swords. [online image] Available from:
https://encrypted-
tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQu8vj1ULWJrw2vcd5QcjNs2OY9_B6a48
AHthrovqfMcxr-yzAokQ [accessed 4 April 2014]
54
Figure 3.4.2 Kopis as Used in the Movie 300. [online image] Available from:
http://www.democratic-republicans.us/images/butler-leonidas-300-kopis.jpg
[Accessed 4 April 2014]
Roman Armour
500 BC- 330
55
4. Rome: 500 BC- 330
4.1 Body Armour
56
Equipment and armour was determined by wealth and power (Wilkinson, 1971:20)
Wealthiest and highest ranks wore full armour and the poorest wore no armour at all and
carried little weaponry
Elaborately ornamented Cuirass was worn over longer tunics
Scale armour and some chainmail was used, although not as extensively (Wilkinson,
1978:36)
Lorica Segementata (Wilkinson, 1978:36)
Metal plates attached to leather strips and formed against the body
As the body moves the metal plates slip underneath each other to accommodate movement
Each section was laced together and worn over a tunic
Consisted of 14 curved plates for the body and 8-10 pieces for the shoulders
57
Figure 4.1.1Roman Cuirass. [online image] Available from:
http://www.fantasyfestival.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab3352
5d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/a/r/armour-roman-plastic-010675052303.png [Accessed 4
April 2014]
58
Figure 4.1.2 Recreation of Roman Lorica Segmentata. [online image] Available
from:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/30/Roman_soldier_in_lorica_seg
mentata_1.jpg [accessed 4 April 2014]
4. Rome: 500 BC- 330
4.1 Body Armour
59
Lorica Hamata (Wilkinson 1978:34)
A shirt of chainmail, used more by lower ranks that could not afford the Curiass or Lorica
Segmentata
Lorica Squamata (Wilkinson, 1978:36)
Similar to scale armour, however, the metal plates are laced together rather than sewn onto
the under garment
Ptruges were worn with a Sporan over the top as extra protection
Sporan refers to a leather belt with studded strips hanging in front of the groin area
Greaves were used on both the arms and legs
Roman soldiers wore leather sandals on their feet often reaching calf high
Red was a signature color of all Roman arms and armour

60
Figure 4.1.3 Lorica Hamata. [online image] Available from:
http://www.losproductosdelugo.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab
33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/_/m/_mg_8655.jpg [accessed 4 April 2014]
61
Figure 4.1.4 Roman Lorica Squamata. [online image] Available from: https://encrypted-
tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQznNqrGsxpsINrzfOvFz0Q595aRD4m6Tq9jIO
C0MY8XbUclkdC [accessed 4 April 2014]
4. Rome: 500 BC- 330
4.2 Helmets
62
Roman Helmets were made of bronze and were reinforced with iron for extra
protection (Wilkinson, 1971: 20)
Helmets were ornate and often appeared with large crests of red dyed horsehair or
plumes of feathers
Helmet shape and design (Wilkinson, 1978:36)
The dome shape covered the head and extended down the neck
The cheek were covered by extensions from the helmet
The ears were left uncovered for improved hearing
The face was left open
63
Figure 4.2.1 Typical Roman Helmet. [online image] Available at:
http://allproductsmart.com/images/H15ROMAN%20HELMET%20WITH%20RED
%20CREST%201.jpg [accessed 4 April 2014]
4. Rome: 500 BC- 330
4.3 Shields
64
Early Romans had an oval shaped convex shield for battles
The more commonly seen shield of the Romans used later in the period is the
Scutum
The Scutum is a rectangular shaped shield hollowed out to form a convex shape
around the wearers body (Wilkinson, 1978:37)
Often the shields were painted with the legions crests to identify which legions
were fighting
65
Figure 4.3.1 Roman shield known as a Scutum. [online image] Available from:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-
E5jJO48kblI/TZ4b10vF7vI/AAAAAAAAAEM/aecME1nsHk0/s1600/scutum+shiel
d+1.jpg [accessed 4 April 2014]
4. Rome: 500 BC- 330
4.4 Weapons
66
The Romans used a long spear called the Pilum which was about 6 feet (1.8m) high,
made of a wooden shaft with a metal head (Wilkinson, 1978:34)
The Pilum was thrown at the enemy from a distance
In the case of the target being missed, the head of the spear bent when it hit the
ground, preventing the enemy from picking it up and using it against the Romans
(Wilkinson, 1978:34)
Another common weapon was the Gladius
The Gladius is a long, broad dagger of approximately 2 feet (60cm) (Wilkinson,
1978: 34)
The dagger was worn on the hip of the soldier in a sheath and used for hand to hand
combat


67
Figure 4.4.1 Roman Pilum Spear. [online image] Available from:
http://static2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20130111201245/runescape/images/a/aa/Ada
mant_hasta_detail.png [accessed 4 April 2014]
68
Figure 4.4.2 Bent Roman Spearheads. [online image] Available from:
http://finds.org.uk/database/ajax/download/id/115649 [accessed 4 April 2014]
69
Figure 4.4.3 Roman Statuettes with Pilum and Scutum. [online image] Available from:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v181/world54mm/Januaty%202008/n1571_zps486d
9440.jpg [accessed 4 April 2014]
70
Figure 4.4.4 Roman Gladius from Pompeii, Italy. [online image] Available from:
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-
dSpowluwKqE/Tu5mZz4dNKI/AAAAAAAAC2w/ge2UAVvaiU8/s1600/gladius+2.
jpg [accessed 4 April 2014]
71
Figure 4.4.5 Ancient Roman Gladius. [online image] Available from
http://www.romancoins.info/milit-gladii-Nim.jpg [Accessed 4 April 2014]
Byzantine Armour
400-1100
72
5. Byzantine: 400-1100
5.1 Body Armour
73
The main development of the Byzantine era was the extensive use of chainmail,
known as the Hauberk
Long or short sleeved and varied in length, however most commonly it was to the knees
(Bartusi, 1997:324)
Chainmail leggings or leg protection was also worn in place of greaves
Pourpoint, a padded surcoat worn as a first layer
Hauberjon, a smaller coat of mail without the head attachments
Scale armour was also used, as well as what is referred to as Lamellar- a type of
armour similar to scale armour but manufactured differently (Tsurtsumia, 2011:66)
A Cuiriee was the leather garment worn under the Hauberk and the Gambeson was
a padded cotton under shirt for the same purpose (Bartusi, 1997:324-325)
It was popular practice to see the horses also clad in chainmail


74
Figure 5.1.1 Byzantine soldier in Hauberk and Horse Armour. [online image] Available
from: http://img118.imageshack.us/img118/4489/116cqao2.jpg [accessed 9 April 2014]
75
Figure 5.1.2 Byzantine Hauberk Remains. [online image] Available from:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/8f/1952_-
_Byzantine_Museum,_Athens_-_Iron_chain_mail_-
_Photo_by_Giovanni_Dall'Orto,_Nov_12_2009.jpg [accessed 9 April 2014]
76
Figure 5.1.3 Gambeson under a :Lamellar. [online image] Available from:
http://heliozoa.com/dp/thirty/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/P9090027.jpg [accessed 9
April 2014]
5. Byzantine: 400-1100
5.2 Helmets
77
Known as the Chapel-de-fer which directly translates to iron hat (Bartusis, 1997:
235)
The design (Bartusis, 1997: 235)
Conical, round or onion shaped
Large and stood tall on the head to give the impression of strength and power in battle
Chainmail hoods and neck coverings were attached to the helmet and covered the entire
neck and occasionally parts of the face as well
Helmets were forged either in one piece or more simply in two pieces joined with a
central comb

78
Figure 5.2.1 Byzantine Helmets. [online image] Available from:
http://media.moddb.com/images/mods/1/18/17117/byzantine-brimmed-helmet-by-zimke-
zlovoljni.png [accessed 9 April 2014]
5. Byzantine: 400-1100
5.3 Shields
79
Shields were all convex in shape in order to deflect bows and arrows of enemies
Popular shapes that appeared was the conventional round shield
However the kite shaped shield made its first appearance in the Byzantine era
An important innovation of Byzantine shields was the incorporation of a thick metal
spike on some of the shields which protruded from the front to use as an additional
weapon

80
Figure 5.3.1 Byzantine Shield. [online image] Available from:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/1b/Worcester_cathedral,_effigy_of_ar
med_knight_.jpg [accessed 9 April 1014]
81
Figure 5.3.2 Byzantine Soldier with a Kite Shield [online image] Available from:
http://img123.imageshack.us/img123/2216/skoutatoi8on.jpg [accessed 9 April 1014]
5. Byzantine: 400-1100
5.4 Weapons
82
The Byzantine sword was known as the Glaive (Burtusis, 1997: 323)
Popularly used was the lance while mounted on a mailed horse
T-hilt Swords made more of an appearance, as well as scythes
Little evidence remains of Byzantine weaponry due to the constant warring and
desolation of evidence for arms (Burtusis, 1997: 322)
As a result, the Byzantine arms have been attributed to that similar to Roman and
Hellenistic from the earlier periods and proximity
Weapons had Italian, Turkish and Normandic influences as well
83
Figure 5.4.1 Byzantine Glaive. [online image] Available from: http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-
y-8mp2wpmB8/T-tbkb_dN3I/AAAAAAAAA1E/wN74XXnGIeA/s1600/IMG_0669.JPG
[accessed 9 April 2014]
84
Figure 5.4.1 Byzantine Weapon Remains. [online image] Available from:
http://www.rus-druzhina.ru/albums/Drevny_Novgorod/Orujie_1.jpg [accessed 9
April 2014]
Medieval Era
Romanesque Armour
900-1200
85
6.1 Medieval: Romanesque 900-1200
6.1.1 Body Armour
86
The byzantine introduction of chainmail continued to be popular in the Romanesque
period in the 10
th
Century
A Byrnie is a chain mail short sleeved shirt (Norris, 2001: online)
A surcoat became more popularly worn over the armour to protect the wearer from
glares of the sun off the metal plates and mail, and to bare the standards of the
wearer (Robinson, 2000: online)
Scale armour of iron, bronze and occasionally horn was still widely used (Norris,
2001: online)
Leggings of chainmail or stretched leather were worn on the legs in place of greaves

87
Figure 6.1.1.1 Chainmail of the Romanesque Period. [online image] Available
from: http://img860.imageshack.us/img860/5931/vb1.jpg [accessed 10 April 2014]
6.1 Medieval: Romanesque 900-1200
6.1.2 Helmets
88
During the Romanesque period the helmets were mostly pointed or conical in shape
An important part of Romanesque helmets was the chainmail attached to the rim of
the helmet
This covered the cheeks and extended around the neck and occasionally over the shoulders
A nasal bar was attached to the helmet and extended down the entire nose to protect the
face
89
Figure 6.1.2.1 chain Mail Helmets. [online image] Available from:
http://users.stlcc.edu/mfuller/russia2006/MoFilmHelmet54.jpg [accessed 10 April 2014]
90
Figure 6.1.2.2 Romanesque Helmets with Nasal Gaurd. [online image] Available
from: http://i43.tinypic.com/1z5t26c.jpg [accessed 9 April 2014]
6.1 Medieval: Romanesque 900-1200
6.1.3 Shields
91
The Romanesque soldiers would be trained to use the shield as a weapon, requiring
strength and agility (Alchin, 2012: online)
Common shapes of shields for the medieval period as a whole, all convex (Alchin,
2012:online)
Kite shaped- rounded top with a pointed bottom used mostly in battle
Heater Shields- used in jousting tournaments
Buckler- small, round metal shields used in hand to hand combat
Pavise/ Wall Shields- large shields used by archers to protect against arrows from the
enemy
Bouche- a shield designed to be used in conjunction with a lance
Shields were painted or decorated with distinguishing sigils
92
Figure 6.1.3.1 Kite Shaped Shields. [online image] Available from:
http://img198.imageshack.us/img198/5020/dscf0420d.jpg [accessed 10 April 2014]
93
Figure 6.1.3.2 Heater Shield. [online image] Available from:
http://www.southernswords.co.uk/ekmps/shops/southernswords/images/el-cid-medieval-
heater-shield-3779-p.jpg [accessed 10 April 2014]
94
Figure 6.1.3.3 Buckler Shield held by Gothic Knight. [online image] Available from:
http://steel-mastery.com/images/products/full/steel-buckler-3.jpg [accessed 10 April
2014]
95
Figure 6.1.3.4 Medieval Pavise Shield for Archers. [online image] Available from:
http://minimumwagehistorian.files.wordpress.com/2011/10/hussite-wars-hussite-
crossbowmen.jpg [accessed 10 April 2014]
6.1 Medieval: Romanesque 900-1200
6.1.4 Weapons
96
The most common weapons were (Norris, 2001:online)
Spears
Battle axes
Bow and arrows, crossbows started to appear
Lance, a large weapon used by a mounted knight or soldier to ride down the enemy
Sword
The majority of weapon development and innovation came in the Gothic era of the
Medieval period
97
Figure 6.1.4.1 Lance and Shield. [online image] Available from:
http://static6.depositphotos.com/1173102/668/i/950/depositphotos_6680788-Lance-
and-shield.jpg [accessed 10 April 2014]
98
Figure 6.1.4.2 Typical Weaponry. [online image] Available from: http://dungeonsmaster.com/wp-
content/uploads/2012/03/weapons-phb-a.jpg [accessed 10 April 2014]