Culets

By Crusader1307

Developed around the late 13th Century (and carrying forward through the history of armor), a Culet was a protective metal plate (or skirting) for the buttocks. In a segmented form, it would fit hinged to the back of the breast/back plate. It would be contoured to fit an adult male. The hinging made the Culet somewhat movable (but still not effective for riding). This made the segmented version practical for standing combat only. Other versions included different design innovations such as more movable metal plates of varying sizes (and effectiveness). Not until the mid 15th Century (in Poland), was a removable girdle Cutlet designed. Very similar to the Ancient Roman Lamellar Scale armor, the plate “pantie” could be worn comfortably on the rear of the wearer (tied to the front), and removed with ease (if needed).