[Aidan Hargitt]

Hello everyone

Hoping you can help me on the question of how armour was transported when not being worn.

Many armoured infantrymen (especially the Landsknechts who are my main focus of interest, but others too) would only wear their armour when combat was reasonably imminent. Assuming something like the half harness plus helmet of a well equipped late mediaeval/early modern foot soldier:

How did they package and transport it on the march? I’m assuming it would go on transport wagons when decent roads were available - how would they pack or wrap it? Could it be packaged to fit on pack horses or mules and, if so, does anyone know how?

If no wagons or pack animals were available, was it easier to wear your armour or carry it, and if the latter how would they pack it?

Any help with these logistical questions, which seem to get a bit neglected as unglamorous in much literature and film, would be much appreciated

Thanks!

[Matthew Amt]

It's a good question! I know there are accounts of medieval knights' armor being packed in chests or boxes, but not sure what there is for common infantry. There *must* be some revealing woodcuts or other illustrations, considering the sheer mass of artwork that survives! I just don't have the resources.

Boxes seems a little bulky for (for example) your typical Landsknecht force, but they'd certainly protect from the elements better than bags or baskets.

I will say that if you have to lug it yourself, WEAR IT. That's hugely easier than trying to schlep it on your back. And it's a big reason why you rarely see common infantry with no leg armor--you do NOT want to march 10 miles in greaves...

Looking forward to better answers!

Matthew

[Aidan Hargitt]

[Ryan S.]

That is a good question. That is an advantage mail has over plate. I think that in some cases it might have been easier to wear the armour than carry it. Specifically with Landsknechts, Troßfrauen are often depicted carrying what appears to be heavy luggage. Sometimes there are boys depicted following Landsknechts. Landsknechts with plate armour were often from the nobility or from "gutem Haus", and probably had some kind of servant. This would explain part of what their extra pay was for. I wonder if they had pack animals? I have seen at least two pictures of boys with dead chickens. I wonder if this is symbolic. Most Landsknecht woodcuts contain symbolism as well as a moral message.

https://www.rijksmuseum.nl/nl/collectie/RP-P-OB-54.785

[Anthony Clipsom]

It is interesting that while there are lots of images of women loaded down with baggage, I'm not sure I know one with the woman carrying armour. Male children with helmets occassionally. Is this artistic convention (armour being symbolic of the soldier, domestic equipment of women)? Or an actual practice (a soldier carried his own armour but piled everything else on the long suffering Troßfrauen)?

[Matthew Amt]