Lorica plumata

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

While several types of loricae (armor) existed in the Roman legion, the lorica plumata was reserved for the use of military leaders (Tribunes and above, but typically Generals) due to the high cost of production, and maintenance. The name the Romans used for this type of armor is not known, lorica plumata being a descriptive term applied by modern scholars, referring to its resemblance to a bird's plumage.

Illustration of Lorica Plumata after ancient monument
Illustration of Lorica Plumata after ancient monument[1]

The lorica plumata was basically a mail shirt (hamata) with small feather-like scales (plumes) attached to the rings. Requiring skilled labor and much time to create, this would have been an expensive piece of military equipment. And while many contest its utility on the field[2], there is no denying that it was an impressive harness, and a troop of officers armored in gleaming silver or gilded lorica plumata must have been a sight to behold in the field, inspiring terror in their adversaries, and confidence in their soldiers.

[edit] References

  1. ^ Rich, Anthony. 3rd ed. 1883. DICTIONNAIRE DES ANTIQUITES ROMAINES ET GRECQUES
  2. ^ Roman Army Talk Forum: Protection - Which Lorica was best?
 This armour-related article is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it.
  This article about the military history of Ancient Rome is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it.