Does anyone have any evidence of a late 15th century Gothic breast plate manufactured from a single sheet? I have no references in any of my texts. In particular, I really like the look of the Manning Imperial Gothic harness, and would like any advice as to its suitability for a late 15th century kit.

Thanks, Brian

They were around. Here's one from Churburg, and the RA in the UK has a couple, one of which is thought to be Spanish, if I remember rightly.

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I thumbed through some of my books and found 2 harnesses with single-piece breastplates. Both were fluted to create a faux-two-piece look, but it was obvious they were single-piece.

James,

Is this the one you were thinking of? Brand new photo for you one piece breastplate.

RPM

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I don't have a scanner, but in the Osprey warrior book for the Hopitallers 1306-1565 includes a photo of a one-piece breastplate that's fluted in a radiating pattern and associated pieces, from the armoury at rhodes, so it should be in that book as well. I think it was late 15th century. Not sure if it were german or, more likely, Italian export. Whether it's 'gothic' depends on your definition.
-Will

That's really neat. Thanks, Chad!

Randall, could be. Last time I saw it in '01 it was by itself.