
Collection Online as of July 2, 2022
Steel and brass rings, riveted with modern buckles and straps
Overall: 76.2 cm (30 in.); Sleeves: 43.2 cm (17 in.)
Gift of John L. Severance 1923.1120
210A Armor Court
Mail armor was the predominant form of metal body defense for European knights until about 1350. The term derives from the Old French word maille (mesh), implying a protective textile. Each mail garment was constructed of small linked metal rings and "woven" for a specific part of the body. Mail for the torso is a hauberk and typically reached mid-thigh.