Hussar Breastplate of the Anima Type, Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth or Hungary, Late 16th Century


A breastplate of the anima type, forged from wrought iron, composed of eight articulated lames connected by rivets and leather straps. The lames (or folgs) are made of plate ranging from 2.5 to 3 mm in thickness. The plates overlap from the bottom upward, forming a flexible but protective surface.

The forging technique allows for a slight medial ridge (central ridge) to be raised along the centerline of the breastplate, enhancing both structural integrity and deflection of blows.

The lowermost lame bears visible traces of repair through forge-welding, while the eighth lame from the bottom shows copper patching on the right-hand side—a typical restoration method observed on anima-type cuirasses.

The topmost lame, at shoulder height, has two iron buckles riveted for fastening the breastplate. Similarly, the lowest lame is equipped on both sides with riveted iron buckles for additional strapping or attachment to other armor components.

The front of the breastplate features 64 visible iron rivet heads. The outer surface of the lames remains unpolished, preserving a utilitarian battlefield appearance.

Historical Note:
Anima-type cuirasses were an Italian innovation of the 16th century, originally developed for naval infantry, offering mobility and segmental protection. However, the design quickly proved its value in land warfare. By the late 16th and early 17th centuries, this type of armor became part of the equipment of elite cavalry units such as the Polish hussars, who valued the combination of flexibility and protection it provided.