brigandine

Brigandine is a form of body armor used in Europe from the 14th to the 16th centuries. It consists of a fabric, leather, or leather-and-fabric garment with numerous small steel plates riveted inside, typically arranged in horizontal rows. The plates are protected by an outer garment and an inner lining; the result is a flexible yet protective tunic that could be worn over or under other armor.

Most brigandines were constructed by inserting steel plates between two layers of cloth or leather and fastening them with rivets or lacing. The plates were usually leaf-shaped or rectangular and sometimes riveted to a backing, allowing bending at the waist. Padding or a quilted gambeson was often worn beneath to cushion blows.

Originating in the 14th century, brigandines appeared in parts of Central and Northern Europe and among Italian makers. They gained popularity through the 15th century, used by foot soldiers and knights alike. Compared with full suits of plate armor, brigandines offered a similar level of protection at lower cost and with greater mobility, though they could be heavier than contemporary mail or cuirass alone. Variants existed with different numbers of plates and backing materials.

By the early 16th century, brigandine gradually declined as full plate armor and alternate systems replaced it. Today it is primarily encountered in historical reenactments, museums, and as a subject of scholarly study on medieval armor.