Artwork Page for Hauberk

Details / Information for Hauberk

Hauberk

1400s

European, 15th century

Medium
riveted steel rings
Measurements
Overall: 121.3 x 85.7 cm (47 3/4 x 33 3/4 in.)
Weight: 9.295 kg (20.49 lbs.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Severance 1916.1543
Public Domain
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Location
210A Armor Court
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Did You Know?

Although this hauberk weighs about 21 pounds, the even distribution of the weight makes it easy to wear.

Description

A hauberk is a mail shirt commonly extending to mid-thigh. Mail, a type of armor made from interlocking iron or steel rings, was effective at protecting the wearer from the sharp cuts of a sword, and yet was less useful against crushing impacts from blunt weapons. A hauberk would have been worn over an aketon, a padded protective garment.
A riveted steel mail tunic hangs vertically, its matte gray mesh composed of thousands of interlocking circular rings. Wide sleeves jut out from the sides, and a vertical opening runs down the center from a rectangular neckline to the hem. The dense, flexible weave creates a heavy, textured surface with irregular edges where individual links are exposed. This protective garment combines structural strength with a fluid, metallic drape.

Hauberk

1400s

European, 15th century

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