Lorica Squamata

As Lorica Squamata (Latin lorica = (belt ) panzer, squama = scale ), the scale armor of the Roman cavalry in the Imperial period referred to.

Description

The Lorica Squamata consisted of iron or bronze metal plate in the form of fish scales that were sewn onto a kind of shirt made ​​of thick leather and connected along the sides with wire. So should be prevented from enemy weapons could pierce between the scales through. Shape and size of the scales were variable. In Carnuntum has found over 30 different forms, the joints of the support were protected by small, movable scales and back and chest larger. The tank weighed about 13 kg. In the 1st century the scale armor handed down to mid- thigh and was worn girded. He has a round neckline, epaulettes and short sleeves, which, as the lower edge, bounded by leather fringe. In the 2nd century the brief, to the hips reaching scale armor was common. In the course of the 3rd century shed shirts came on again for a long, belted, which reach at knee height and have sleeves to the elbow. They were worn by horsemen and foot soldiers.