Medieval Armor: Purchase or Custom-Made, and the Cost
The medieval era was marked by complex and sophisticated systems of warrior protection, which included the acquisition and creation of armor. Understanding how medieval warriors procured their armor is critical for comprehending the warfare and society of that time. Did they purchase it or have it made to custom specifications? And what was the cost involved?
Kingly Smithies and Armorer Guilds
In many cases, armor was not simply purchased but was either crafted or repaired by the realms' smiths. Kings often maintained their own workshops, also known as smediaries. These royal-run workshops would produce, repair, and maintain various military equipment for the royal troops, including armor, weapons, and tools. While this service was exclusive to the nobility and the king's forces, other warriors and soldiers could still obtain their gear through other means.
Free men, known as freemen, were occasionally able to become blacksmiths, but obtaining the necessary equipment and land to establish a smithy was expensive. Some families would run their own smithies and pass them down through generations. Caravans, or wagon trains, often followed armies and carried not just equipment and supplies but also trained craftsmen, such as bowyers, fletchers, shoemakers, apothecaries, and blacksmiths. These caravans provided essential services, including repairing and crafting weapons and armor from spoils of war. Free blacksmiths, also known as independents, would travel where the work was to make a living.
Custom-Made Armor and Cost Variations
Armor was often custom-made and tailored to specific measurements. Making armor was a meticulous and time-consuming process, involving the fitting of joints and intricate designs. The cost of armor varied widely, with the cheapest being boiled armor. This type of armor was made by wrapping leather or fabric in hot water, which hardened it into a protective layer. While this method was cost-effective, it was not as durable as more luxurious options.
Chain mail, a form of armor made by drawing wire through holes, was more expensive. The process involved creating hundreds or even thousands of individual links, each of which had to be individually fashioned. This labor-intensive process ensured the quality and durability of the chain mail, making it a more costly option compared to boiled armor.
Plate armor, particularly the highly etched and polished parade armor from the 15th century in Milan, was the most expensive of all. The craftsmanship involved in creating plate armor required expert blacksmiths and a great deal of labor. The amount of labor alone suggested a sky-high cost, making such armor a symbol of wealth and status among the nobility.
Social Dynamics and Armor Production
The production of armor was not just a matter of craftsmanship but also reflected the social and economic structures of medieval society. The idea of chivalry, often romanticized, was primarily a concept for the noble class. Nobles had certain privileges that regular soldiers did not. For example, a noble could be left unhorsed without being killed, a retreating noble could not be pursued, and the aim was never at nobles, as it was considered a rule for the rich and privileged.
Armorers themselves formed guilds, which played a crucial role in the production of armor. Over time, these guilds assumed more specialized roles, contributing to the complexity and cost of armor. The guilds often controlled the quality and techniques used in the production of armor, ensuring that only the finest and most durable armor reached the battlefield.
Conclusion
Medieval warriors had various options for acquiring their armor, from purchasing pre-made goods to having it custom-made. The cost of armor ranged from the relatively affordable boiled armor to the extremely expensive plate armor, with chain mail falling in between. The process of creating armor was labor-intensive and required skilled blacksmiths and specialized guilds, making it a significant investment for any warrior. Understanding the process and cost of armor acquisition provides valuable insights into the social, economic, and military aspects of medieval warfare.