Metal Body Suits vs. Weapons of Medieval Destruction discusses the evolution of armor through the Middle Ages. While it is a very brief overview — focusing more on late medieval plate armor — the article does provide a host of images to supplement the text.
The focus of my studies tends be on medieval England and France during the High Middle Ages, before this type of plate armor even existed, but some of the pieces of armor shown here are so outrageous, I just had to share the link. I didn’t realize such decorative helms even existed. Were they actually worn into battle, or were they just show pieces? Maybe someone more knowledgeable on the late medieval period (particularly armor) can comment.
Any thoughts?
*the photo is of the armet of Henry VIII (Innsbruck, Austria); image retrieved from the site linked above
Steven,
Thank you for sharing such thought provoking history! I have never read about this type of armor in all my years of studying medieval history. Kinda makes me want to hang my head in shame LOL.
Sari
Thanks, Sari. I’ve never seen anything quite like some of this armor before either. Crazy stuff.
Sorry if this is a little off topic bue, this is for Richard Mancuso at his request: Three types of attacks can be performed with the blade: striking, cutting, and thrusting. The blade can be double-edged or single-edged, the latter often having a secondary “false edge” near the tip. When handling the sword, the long or true edge is the one used for straight cuts or strikes, while the short or false edge is the one used for backhand strikes. Some hilt designs define which edge is the ‘long’ one, while more symmetrical designs allow the long and short edges to be inverted by turning the sword of one’s hand on the hilt. —————–You’re welcone. Jim, The Sword Guy