Linothorax

When linen armor, Greek Linothorax, is a breastplate linen-based, which was mainly used in Ancient Greece. They were considered so precious that they were offered as votive offerings in the temples.

Description

The exact structure of a Linothorax is unknown, as only a few fragments were found and reconstructions above all, artistic representations - such as vases, paintings - need support. The research is now believed that the original linen tank several layers of linen were übereinandergeleimt example with hide glue, the fabric laminate was quite stiff and tough. Depending on the wealth of the owner of the tank could be additionally reinforced with bronze, which was mostly sewn in the form of small platelets ( scale armor ). Most of the armor was, however, painted, and cut the bottom part to fringe- like strips. Line tanks were carried out mainly in the form of a flap carapace. From the 4th century BC were also increasingly simpler linen armor used that were not glued, but padded with wool. This shape reminded visually of a quilt and was often dyed red. In the 5th century BC, the lead tank armor became the most important form of Greek hoplites, because it was easier and cheaper than a fully forged bronze breastplate, moreover, he conformed by the body heat perfectly to the wearer's body to.

Recent research results indicate that a linen tank with modern Kevlar armor - the material from which modern bulletproof vests are made ​​- can be compared. The Linothorax was taken, inter alia, by the cavalry of the Persians.