Gambeson Maciejowski Bible

Product description

The earliest proven use of the gambeson dates from the late 11th to early 12th century AD, although it is likely that gambesons were already employed in the early Middle Ages. The gambeson may be worn on its own or beneath a hauberk. Beneath a hauberk, it protects from the impact of blows directly to the body. Hauberks were sometimes so thick and tough that they could even provide protection against arrows fired with low draw weight.

This type of gambeson is based on the model depicted in the Morgan Bible from 1250. Gambesons remained popular amongst mainly infantry until the 14th century, after which a different type, resembling a padded pourpoint, was introduced.

The gambeson is crafted from canvas cotton with thick padding. The thickness of this garment is 5 mm.