Three-quarter Armor for Heavy Calvary (Cuirassier's Armor)

At the close of the 16th century, a new class of horsemen emerged: the cuirassier. Cuirassiers fought with broadswords and pistols instead of the lance. These cavalrymen wore heavy armors of "proof," designed to withstand gunshot. Since there was now the added weight of armor above the torso, armor below the knee was eliminated. Although somewhat standardized, these armors still reflected prevailing artistic styles and civilian fashion. A waisted and flat-sided breastplate copied the male doublet form and was completed by round-hipped tassets to the knees. Such armors were often worn over a thick "buff" leather coat and heavily padded breeches.