chevauxdefrise

Chevaux-de-frise are defensive obstacles consisting of a line of fixed chevaux de frise weapons. These are typically made of wooden spars or iron pikes, angled forward, designed to impale or disable cavalry charges. They are named after Friesland, a region in the Netherlands, where they were supposedly first used by Dutch forces during the Franco-Dutch War in the late 17th century. Their purpose was to create a barrier that would break the momentum of an attacking cavalry force and make them vulnerable to infantry fire.

The construction of chevaux de frise varied. Early versions often used sharpened wooden stakes or timbers, sometimes with iron points, lashed together to form a chevaux de frise. These could be planted in the ground or mounted on wheeled carriages for mobility. Later iterations might incorporate more robust materials and designs. They were effective in field battles, defensive sieges, and particularly in narrow passes or choke points where cavalry maneuverability was limited. The sight of a chevaux de frise often served as a psychological deterrent as well, signaling the intent of a prepared defense. While primarily associated with cavalry warfare, the principle of creating anti-personnel or anti-vehicle obstacles has evolved into modern defensive structures.