What is a Full Suit of Armour Called?
Direct Answer
A full suit of armor, also referred to as a panoply, is a comprehensive body armor system that covers a warrior or knight from head to toe, providing comprehensive protection in medieval warfare and combat. This elaborate and intricate suit of armor has been used throughout history, with different civilizations and eras employing various techniques to craft their own unique full suits of armor.
History of Full Suits of Armor
The history of full suits of armor dates back to ancient times, with the earliest examples found in ancient Greece and Rome. The ancient Greeks and Romans used bronze armor, known as Lorica Segmentata, which was composed of small bronze plates articulated to form a protective covering for the body. This early form of body armor was heavy, cumbersome, and restrictive, making it unsuitable for widespread use.
The Roman Legions, however, adopted a different approach. They developed the Scutum, a shield made of wood or bronze, which provided excellent protection for the front and sides of the warrior. Meanwhile, the Greaves, knee-length leg coverings, protected the warrior’s legs from attack.
Medieval Era
The Medieval Era saw a significant improvement in armor technology, particularly with the development of articulated armor, such as the Kote (Japanese armor) and Poulaines (French armor). These innovations allowed for more mobility and flexibility while still providing comprehensive protection.
In the 14th and 15th centuries, Italian Armorers began producing more elaborate suits of armor, featuring articulated joints, intricate designs, and an emphasis on beauty and aesthetics. These Renaissance-style Armors were often expensive and time-consuming to create, but they provided an unparalleled level of protection for the knight.
Key Components of a Full Suit of Armor
A full suit of armor typically consists of several key components:
• Helmet: a protective headpiece, often decorated with intricate designs
• Gorget: a chest plate, typically covering the throat and shoulders
• Pauldrons: shoulder armor, protecting the upper arms
• Rondels: armor covering the lower arms, often extending to the wrist
• Couters: articulated armor pieces protecting the lower legs, including the thighs and calves
• Vambraces: armor protecting the upper arms, including the biceps and triceps
• Chausses: armor protecting the lower legs, often extending to the feet
• Gauntlets: articulated armor pieces covering the hands, including the fingers
Significant Characteristics of a Full Suit of Armor
Full suits of armor have several significant characteristics that set them apart:
• Protection: Provides comprehensive protection for the wearer, including head, body, and limbs
• Mobility: Often features articulated joints, allowing for greater flexibility and movement
• Aesthetics: Often decorated with intricate designs, symbols, and heraldic emblems
• Weight: Full suits of armor can be extremely heavy, ranging from 30-60 pounds (13-27 kg) or more
• Cost: Elaborate suits of armor were often expensive to create and maintain
Modern-day Significance of Full Suits of Armor
Today, full suits of armor continue to play a significant role in:
• Historical Reenactments: Historical reenactments and events often feature medieval warriors and knights, requiring elaborate suits of armor to be created or replicated.
• Cosplay and Fandom: Fans and enthusiasts of fantasy and historical fiction often create or commission custom suits of armor for costume purposes.
• Modern Armor Production: The study of ancient armor-making techniques has inspired modern advancements in armor technology, influencing the development of contemporary body armor and combat gear.
In conclusion, a full suit of armor is a remarkable and complex system of protection that has been used throughout history to defend warriors and knights. The panoply, or full suit of armor, is an integral part of medieval warfare and continues to captivate us today through its aesthetic appeal, historical significance, and functional importance.