Breastplates

A breastplate is one of the numerous pieces of combat armor, designed to protect the chest. Together with the backplate, they formed the cuirass.

The breastplate, like the helmet, is also one of the oldest parts of armor. The Greeks were the first to use breastplates to ensure body protection during combat. The vast majority of breastplates were anatomically shaped and, in addition to their protective function, also served an aesthetic purpose.

Steel was used for the manufacture of breastplates during the Middle Ages. The shape of a breastplate was curved, which served to deflect blows and projectiles from enemies.

Types of breastplates

Like most parts of combat armor, breastplates differed quite a bit from each other. According to their shape and typology, the following types can be highlighted:

·         The allecret or infantry breastplate, was a cut breastplate that was placed over the brigandine.

·         The double breastplate, which was reinforced with an over-breastplate or flying breastplate.

·         The cranzado breastplate, which had a piece called a "trance" at its lower part.

·         Tresdoblado, which was a reinforced breastplate.

In this category, we invite you to discover our selection of antique breastplates, perfect for a faithful recreation of a historical event or a film.