Visby Spaulder – 14th century

These spaulders are a reproduction of a piece of armour found at an archaeological grave find from the battle of Visby. Compared to the original artefact these spaulders have a more elongated point.

The Battle of Visby was fought in 1361 in Sweden near the town of Visby on the island of Gotland. The battle occurred between the people of Gotland and the army of the Danish King Valdemar Atterdag. The burial is archeologically important as after the battle many of the dead were, unusually, buried with their armour and weapons providing significant insight into 14^th century medieval warfare. The quality of the preservation of items and the deceased was very good for their age and included a wide variety of items including mail armour, brigandines, maces, swords and crossbows.

These spaulders tie onto the shoulders over mail and are a transitional armour style. Transitional armour occurred in the 14^th century in Europe as armour developed from mail armour with smaller steel plates over vital points to full plate armour.

Made from 16 gauge steel the spaulders include leather ties to attach them. The back of the spaulders have been blackened to improve corrosion resistance. Each spaulder measures 18.5cm in width and length and 26.5cm in height and the total weight for the pair including the leather ties is 1.06kg.

This set is most suitable for early to mid 14th century re-enactment and living history. 

The original artefact can be seen in the book Armour From The Battle Of Visby 1361 vol.1 by Bengt Thordeman (page 112 and 113, figure 102) shown in images.

Please note in the photo the spaulders are tied on with a woven lacing cord. These spaulders include a leather lacing cords. Woven lacing cords are not included and are available separately.

Price is for a pair.