The Armorer's Craft

ron mesh called mail was the most common metal armor used in medieval Europe until the beginning of the fourteenth century. However, mail was of limited protection against the crushing blows of heavy weapons and crossbow bolts. It was gradually supplemented, and eventually replaced by armor of iron plate. By the beginning of the fifteenth century, the best-equipped knights were covered in plate armor virtually from head to toe.

Requirements to be a master armorer varied, but typically included a lengthy apprenticeship and examination for acceptance into a trade association, or guild. Some masters were qualified to make full suits, while others specialized in certain elements.

Producing an armor required various craftsmen, from the "hammermen" who would rough-shape the pieces, to the master armorers who finished the piece with light hammers and files. Pieces could also be decorated with a variety of techniques, including etching and gilding. The whole process might be completed in a matter of weeks for a plain armor for war, or many months for a highly decorated ceremonial armor.

Photo by Don Eaton

The splendid pair of gauntlets (hand defenses) show here can be seen in the Armorer's Workshop area of the museum. They are made of steel with etched gold decoration. The gauntlets are from an armor made by the Augsburg armorer Desiderius Helmschmid (1513-1578/79) and decorated by the artist Jörg T. Sorg the Younger (ca. 1525-1603) for Prince (later King) Philip of Spain. The remainder of this armor is in the Royal Armory in Madrid, Spain. The gauntlets were probably among the items removed from the armory during a fire in 1839. Philip was portrayed by Titian (ca. 1488-1576) wearing this suit in a painting in the Prado Museum, Madrid. The armor also appears on an Italian medal of 1555 by Jacopo da Trezzo (1519-1589), and in later paintings by Rubens and Velásquez.

Ancient Arms & Armor
Hunting Gallery
Combat Wing
Arms & Armor Around The World
The Armorer's Craft
Tournament Wing