Victorian Full Suit of Armour with Shield | Late 15th Century Manner | 19th Century
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Europe (Victorian England)
Material: Steel, iron, brass, leather, and textile components
Period: 19th Century, crafted in the manner of Late 15th Century Gothic Armour
Description
This Victorian full suit of armour, crafted in the 19th century in the style of late 15th-century Gothic plate armour, is a striking example of Europe’s fascination with medieval revivalism. Built during the height of the Victorian medievalism movement, this suit was created as an impressive historical reproduction, celebrating the artistry, symbolism, and chivalric ideals associated with the medieval knight.
Constructed from steel, iron, brass trim, and leather fittings, the armour features extensive acid-etched decoration, elaborate Gothic motifs, and refined sculptural lines—showcasing both historical inspiration and Victorian-era craftsmanship. Suits like this were displayed proudly in manor houses, castles, and private collections as symbols of status, lineage, and romanticized medieval heritage.
Features
- Ornately Acid-Etched Breastplate & Backplate:
Decorated with detailed engravings of dragons, mythical creatures, crowns, and battle motifs—signature elements of Victorian Gothic Revival artistry.
- Gothic-Style Pauldrons & Arm Defences:
Sculpted plates with fluting, ridges, and riveted articulation, designed to echo the strength and elegance of 15th-century European armour.
- Fully Articulated Gauntlets:
Multi-plate construction allowing finger and wrist mobility, replicating the engineering of original medieval gauntlets.
- Fluted Leg Armour & Sabatons:
Gothic-inspired cuisses, greaves, and pointed sabatons that reflect late-medieval design aesthetics and advanced metalworking.
- Decorative Brass Accents:
Trim and fittings that enhance the armour’s grandeur and highlight Victorian stylistic preferences.
- Custom Wooden Display Stand:
A stable, museum-quality stand designed for secure presentation, emphasizing the armour’s imposing height and silhouette.
Cultural Significance
During the 19th century, Europe—and especially Victorian England—experienced a passionate revival of interest in medieval history, chivalric ideals, and Gothic art. Wealthy collectors commissioned armour like this to evoke notions of knighthood, honor, nobility, and lineage. These suits became important decorative and symbolic pieces in aristocratic homes, private galleries, and historical collections.
This armour represents both a tribute to medieval craftsmanship and an artifact of the Victorian romantic imagination, blending historical accuracy with artistic embellishment.
Condition
Excellent condition for its age, with well-preserved acid-etched detailing, stable metal surfaces, and only minor wear consistent with 19th-century craftsmanship. The custom stand ensures secure vertical display, enhancing its visual presence.
Dimensions (approximate)
Overall Height (including stand): 80 in
Width: 32 in
Age
19th Century (Victorian Era)
Learn More
Want The Untold Details? Explore Our Blog To Reveal The Legends, Craftsmanship, And Symbolism Behind This Extraordinary Suit Of Armour
Read about Gothic Armour and Medieval Knights From The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Discover The Role of Armour in Fashion From The Victoria and Albert Museum
Explore Our Collection of Ancient Combat Artifacts: Armor & Weapons
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Europe (Victorian England)
Material: Steel, iron, brass, leather, and textile components
Period: 19th Century, crafted in the manner of Late 15th Century Gothic Armour
Description
This Victorian full suit of armour, crafted in the 19th century in the style of late 15th-century Gothic plate armour, is a striking example of Europe’s fascination with medieval revivalism. Built during the height of the Victorian medievalism movement, this suit was created as an impressive historical reproduction, celebrating the artistry, symbolism, and chivalric ideals associated with the medieval knight.
Constructed from steel, iron, brass trim, and leather fittings, the armour features extensive acid-etched decoration, elaborate Gothic motifs, and refined sculptural lines—showcasing both historical inspiration and Victorian-era craftsmanship. Suits like this were displayed proudly in manor houses, castles, and private collections as symbols of status, lineage, and romanticized medieval heritage.
Features
- Ornately Acid-Etched Breastplate & Backplate:
Decorated with detailed engravings of dragons, mythical creatures, crowns, and battle motifs—signature elements of Victorian Gothic Revival artistry.
- Gothic-Style Pauldrons & Arm Defences:
Sculpted plates with fluting, ridges, and riveted articulation, designed to echo the strength and elegance of 15th-century European armour.
- Fully Articulated Gauntlets:
Multi-plate construction allowing finger and wrist mobility, replicating the engineering of original medieval gauntlets.
- Fluted Leg Armour & Sabatons:
Gothic-inspired cuisses, greaves, and pointed sabatons that reflect late-medieval design aesthetics and advanced metalworking.
- Decorative Brass Accents:
Trim and fittings that enhance the armour’s grandeur and highlight Victorian stylistic preferences.
- Custom Wooden Display Stand:
A stable, museum-quality stand designed for secure presentation, emphasizing the armour’s imposing height and silhouette.
Cultural Significance
During the 19th century, Europe—and especially Victorian England—experienced a passionate revival of interest in medieval history, chivalric ideals, and Gothic art. Wealthy collectors commissioned armour like this to evoke notions of knighthood, honor, nobility, and lineage. These suits became important decorative and symbolic pieces in aristocratic homes, private galleries, and historical collections.
This armour represents both a tribute to medieval craftsmanship and an artifact of the Victorian romantic imagination, blending historical accuracy with artistic embellishment.
Condition
Excellent condition for its age, with well-preserved acid-etched detailing, stable metal surfaces, and only minor wear consistent with 19th-century craftsmanship. The custom stand ensures secure vertical display, enhancing its visual presence.
Dimensions (approximate)
Overall Height (including stand): 80 in
Width: 32 in
Age
19th Century (Victorian Era)
Learn More
Want The Untold Details? Explore Our Blog To Reveal The Legends, Craftsmanship, And Symbolism Behind This Extraordinary Suit Of Armour
Read about Gothic Armour and Medieval Knights From The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Discover The Role of Armour in Fashion From The Victoria and Albert Museum
Explore Our Collection of Ancient Combat Artifacts: Armor & Weapons
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