LOT 30 A pair of Roman lamellar greaves of an armoured rider (cataf...
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A pair of matching greaves made of anatomically shaped, movable bronze lamellae. The right example consists of 19 lamellae, the left of 20. The lower 15 lamellae of each example arranged horizontally, connected on both sides with two rows each and on the shin with a row of rivets made of iron. On the outside, along the rows of rivets, traces or imprints of strips (of iron sheet or leather?) connecting the rivets are partially preserved. The construction adapts anatomically to the slightly outwardly curved shin and bes wider towards the top to enclose the calves. Above this construction there are four lamellae on the example for the right leg and five lamellae on the example for the left leg, which served as knee protection and were more flexible. The reason for the different design remains unclear (different leg lengths? Adaptation to injury?). However, there is no doubt that the two greaves belong together and areplete. The two lower lamellae enclosing the knee are differently shaped. The lower one at the bottom with two curved cut-outs and the one above with one concave cut-out each at the top and bottom. The two and three lamellae above are again of the same width. The entire upper rim and the lateral edges of the construction perforated at intervals of approx. 1 - 1.5 cm, probably to attach an inner lining. Olive green patina with minimal incrustations. On the left specimen a partially shimmering metallic background. Excellent state of preservation without missing parts or additions. Height of the right greave 45 cm, of the left 49 cm. Armour made of lamellae was frequently encountered in the Roman army. In addition to the famous splint armour (lorica segmentata), finds of arm protection devices made of lamellae (manica) for the sword arm are known as original finds, the construction of which is strongly reminiscent of the here presented greaves. Such "manicae" are depicted on metopes of the victory monument of Adamklissi from the Trajan period. So far, greaves made of lamellae have not been preserved in the original.mon cavalry and infantry units wore two-piece greaves with separate knee protection, that exist in many items. However, greaves made of lamellae are known from pictorial representations showing heavy lancers with full body armour, including the famous graffito from Dura Europos. The latter clearly shows lamellar greaves enclosing the entire calf. Central Asian-style armoured horsemen played an important role as heavy cavalry in the Roman army in the course of the 3rd century and in late antiquity. Provenance: South German private collection, acquired in the Munich art trade (M.H.) in the 90s. Condition: I - IIProvenance: South German private collection, acquired in the Munich art trade (M.H.) in the 90s.
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