poignier

A poignier is a type of medieval or early modern metal glove, typically made of steel, designed to protect the hand. These were often worn in conjunction with gauntlets, which provided more extensive arm and hand protection. Poigniers were particularly useful for soldiers in combat, offering defense against cuts and thrusts from weapons. The term "poignier" itself derives from the Old French word for "to stab" or "to pierce," highlighting its defensive function.

The construction of a poignier usually involved overlapping plates or a single piece of shaped metal. They could be articulated to allow for a reasonable range of motion in the fingers and wrist, though mobility was often sacrificed for superior protection. Some poigniers were elaborately decorated, indicating their wear by individuals of higher social standing or for ceremonial purposes. While primarily associated with military use, similar hand defenses may have been employed by other individuals requiring hand protection, such as laborers in hazardous environments, though historical documentation for such uses is less common. The evolution of armor saw poigniers gradually become integrated into more comprehensive gauntlet designs, eventually becoming less distinct as a separate item of armor.