Description
In the latter half of the 15th century, armorers honed plate armor into a balance of protection and mobility, with the Gothic style becoming prominent during the War of the Roses. These pauldrons, forged from 18 gauge steel, cover both the right and left shoulders, offering vital defense against strikes while allowing the wearer to move freely. The fluted ridges and openwork are more than decoration,they serve to deflect blows and lighten the weight without weakening the steel. Such pauldrons were typically worn alongside mitten gauntlets and a German Gothic cuirass with tassets, forming a cohesive suit that emphasized the tall, pointed shapes and vertical lines characteristic of the Gothic aesthetic. Crafted with an understanding of both the practical needs of combat and the style of the era, these pieces reflect the skill of medieval armorers.
Fun fact: The sharp, fluted ridges on Gothic pauldrons were designed not only to strengthen the plate but also to help direct sword blows away from vulnerable joints, making them a practical feature born from hard-fought experience.
