These spaulders are a reproduction of a piece of armour found at an archaeological grave find from the battle of Wisby. The Battle of Visby was fought in 1361 in Sweden near the town of Visby on the island of Gotland. The battle occurred between the people of Gotland and the army of the Danish King Valdemar Atterdag. The burial is archeologically important as after the battle many of the dead were, unusually, buried with their armour and weapons providing significant insight into 14th century medieval warfare. The quality of the preservation of items and the deceased was very good for their age and included a wide variety of items including mail armour, brigandines, maces, swords and crossbows. Another example of shoulder protection in this style can be seen in the Bargello Palace Carving located in Florence which was estimated to have been created in 1320 (shown in images). These spaulders tie onto the shoulders over mail and are a transitional armour style. Transitional armour occurred in the 14th century in Europe as armour developed from mail armour with smaller steel plates over vital points to full plate armour. Made from 16 gauge steel the spaulders have a 3mm leather backing which is securely rivetted to cushion them on the shoulders during combat. The back of the spaulders have been blackened to improve corrosion resistance. Each spaulder measures 20.5cm in width and length and 4.5cm in height. This set is most suitable for early to mid 14th century re-enactment and living history. The original artefact can be seen in the book Armour From The Battle Of Visby 1361 vol.1 by Bengt Thordeman (page 112 and 113, figure 102) shown in images. Ties sold separately. Price is for a pair.
