Pauldrons

By Crusader1307

Evolved from Spaulders (plated shoulder protection), Pauldrons were often large. Designed as an over sized, conclaved or circular "dome", they were attached to the breastplate by hinges. Pauldrons could not only protect the underarm, but a small portion of the upper back. Often they were worn in pairs, but some wearers wore them singularly - on their "fighting arm" side. Often highly decorated, they were very popular in tournaments (jousting).