Product Details
A brigandine is a style of body armour made from a leather jacket with small steel plates riveted to the inside of it. The design is the final evolution of the "coat-of-plates" armour that first appeared in the late 12th century and persisted into the 15th and 16th centuries. During the 14th century both knights and men-at-arms used the coat-of-plates but as plate armour became more effective and custom fitting, the coat-of-plates became more commonly used by men-arms and lower ranked soldiers like archers.
The brigandine is a reproduction of the famous "Leeds Brigandine" held in the Royal Armouries in Leeds, England (Item Number III.1664). This is a surviving example dating from about 1470 and made by the Milanese Armorers in Milan, Italy.
Lord of Battles have made a faithful reproduction of the Leeds Brigandine. It is made from 150 steel plates, approximately 1mm thick riveted to a suede leather jacket with flat headed rivets arranged in decorative motifs. It is adjustable with 5 leather straps on the front and 2 over the shoulder so it can fit most people sizes L and XL. Period buckles and other fittings make this a highly functional and authentic rendition of this iconic late medieval armour.
Not only does it have a great appearance, but it is also extremely comfortable, because of the excellent mobility it provides. A brigandine was also quite efficient in offering excellent protection, forming a perfect balance between having almost no hindrance in the movement and retaining a significant amount of protection.
It weighs 10 kg but because of its tailored fit, fits snuggly to the body to ensure even weight distribution.
Period In Use and Complimentary Products
This particular type of Brigadine probably appeared as early as the very late 14th Century and was used well into the 16th Century
It can be worn over one of our 15th Century Arming Doublets as both were originally used in combination to maximise the effect of both. It can be worn over a Maille Haubergeon but we would recommend a pair of Voiders or Joined Voiders instead. Most of our other 15th - 16th century items of plate armour and helmets can also be used with it.
Price include GST and tracked courier delivery within New Zealand.
