Chinese Component Armor

By Crusader1307

Developed around the 15th/16th Centuries, Component Armor consisted of multiple pieces of matched armor. Considered expensive, the featured components were: Front and Back Breastplates, Shoulder Guards and Thigh Guards. Helmets were made separately and not considered a part (as were Arm Guards and Greaves). Often, the Nobleman procured these pieces at an additional expense (or had them made to match). Made of reinforced Lamellar Plate, this would be riveted onto a boiled Leather component piece (or several pieces). The pieces were often “tailored” to the wearer for a perfect fit. Unlike the Japanese custom of passing down one's Armor to the next generation, Component Armor was not. Often it was buried with the Owner or placed within his tomb.