Cuirass and Tassets (Torso and Hip Defense) 1485 - 1545

This is a cuirass and tassets, or torso and hip defense, made by Kolman Helmschmid around the early 16th century. It's forged from steel, a material that speaks volumes about the age of warfare and technological advancement. The process of creating such armor involved not only shaping the metal through hammering and heating but also decorating it with etched designs. These weren’t just functional objects, they were showcases of wealth and status. The weight and form of the steel dictate the wearer’s posture and movement, influencing their presence on the battlefield. Armor production was highly specialized. Think of the division of labor required – from mining the ore to the final polish, and the artistic skill required for etching the surface. Understanding armor like this means recognizing the confluence of craft, technology, and social hierarchy that defined its time.