Medieval Short Cuirass (Front + Back)

The medieval short cuirass a breastplate and backplate armor evolved from earlier forms like the muscle cuirass and developed into the more familiar plate armor of the later Middle Ages. It offered protection to the torso typically stopping at the midriff or navel allowing for movement and flexibility. The cuirass was often worn with other forms of armor like chainmail or a plackart to protect the areas not covered by the cuirass.

The cuirass began as a thick leather garment later evolving into metal versions. The muscle cuirass, seen in ancient Greek and Roman cultures was a cast or hammered piece that covered the chest and back often with shoulder guards. During the High Medieval period the cuirass developed further with armorers using more sophisticated techniques to create independent mail or riveted plates.The early 15th century saw the emergence of full plate armor including breastplates and backplates, which became increasingly prevalent and replaced chainmail in many areas.

While plate armor was sometimes worn without a surcoat , the short surcoat or tabard became popular in the later part of the 15th century providing a layer of protection and visual style over the armor. The short cuirass was designed to provide protection to the vital organs while allowing for a sufficient range of motion as the torso needed to bend and twist during combat. Early cuirasses were made of leather , bronze or mail. Later cuirasses were crafted from steel and other metals often riveted or fastened with straps and buckles. Some cuirasses included hinged backplates , shoulder guards and extensions to protect the sides.

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