Centurion greaves, ocrae

Product description

Similar greaves were worn as early as the 4th century BC. They continued to be used until the 2nd century AD by Roman generals and emperors as ceremonial equipment. From the 4th to the 1st century BC, greaves were worn by Roman soldiers such as the Principes, Hastati, and Triarii. Often, only one greave was worn (on the leg positioned at the front of the formation) so as to reduce costs.

From the first half of the 16th century, the subarmalis and other classical armour pieces came back into fashion. During the Renaissance, classical antiquity received renewed attention, leading to a new development in plate armour known as the all'antica style. This style is characteristic of the cinquedea, barbute, and armour featuring decorative curves. Murals and paintings from this period often depict Italian knights wearing classical greaves, subarmalis, and breastplates.