Milanese leg harness Avant, about 1440

Milanese leg harness Avant, about 1440

• It is made from 1.6mm carbon steel (gauge 16), the actual gauge of plate may vary due to the handcrafted way of production.
• Made by Marshal Historical

Avant is one of the oldest near-complete armours in the world, dating from about 1440. It is in remarkably good condition remaining in the castle armoury of a noble family in the Alps until being bought by an American media tycoon in the early 20th century. It is often referred to as the Avant armour as this word – meaning ‘Forward!’ – is inscribed on the edges of the breastplate. The armour was made in the renowned armour-making city of Milan. Armours made by its craftsmen were greatly sought after by wealthy warriors all across Europe.

Measurements

• Length of the thigh plate approx. 43cm
• Length of the lower knee plate approx. 11cm
• Overall length approx. 54cm

• Straps in back part
  1 – strap under knee – circumference from 40 to 50cm
  2 – strap over knee – circumference from 40 to 50cm
  3 – strap under knee – circumference from 46 to 60cm