Can someone help point me in the right direction on being a Archer in 1160 to 1300 time period. Clothing, equipage and such.
Thanks a heap,
Wisp
Start here
http://www.regia.org/SaxonArchery.htm
The time period you are looking for roughly spans the third crusade.
Illuminated manuscripts like the works of Peter of Eboli, depicting the exploits of Richard I will probably include
drawings of the archers in his army.
A good book to look for would be Western Warfare in the Age of the Crusades, 1000-1300 By John France
Thank you for the info.
Wisp
What sort of archer? English? Scottish? German? Some of the equipment might have been the same, but the clothing was different from one to the next.
I think English at this time, that is until I learn more. I have Jim Bradbury's book "The Medieval Archer". Looking forward to reading it soon.
Thanks a heap,
Will Shadowlurker
I've patterned my light archer garb after Robin Hood and his men. A tunic, tights, or breeches, low shoes, moccasins high or low, a gambeson, and a hood/mantle or stocking cap. Then of course the bow, a pouch , quiver, short sword/dagger (difference here is a short sword usually 2ft, and a dagger 1ft or 6 inches). and that's about it. Now if heavy archer, I wear a leather cuirass, pants, mail shirt, war hat (metal helmet sort of like a WWI British Army helmet). pouch,quiver,short sword,. So with that that's a basic idea. jcbanner mentions that the different countries style of dress is different and he's right. The Germans and French wore clothing that was much more stylized/fashionable, where as the Scots and English wore clothing which was much more practical. Hope this helps, just figured it's been a long time since I've posted in this thread. I like to share info. when I can. Don't mean to step on any one's toes.
Many thanks Milord Poldugarian Warrior. That bit of info helps a lot.
Will
You know who wears lovely archer garb? Var Greyshadow.
You might want to look at some pictures of her on the forum or renmail her, because we met her in person, and she looked wonderful. Maybe she can give you some hints.
Milady Rene, I don't think I would look as good as Milady Greyshadow does. LOL! She sure does garb right.
Thanks for the reply Milady,
Will Shadowlurker
Thank you both, Renee and Wisp!
I will point out that my archer garb is inspired much more by Lord of the Rings than by period accuracy (which is why I haven't stepped into this thread earlier). I do get mistaken for Robin Hood (or one of his band), so if that's what you're going for, you may find some examples in my ensemble. Happy to help if you do have questions.
For period accuracy, I would recommend looking up Osprey books and seeing if they have one for the time period you're looking at. They have great color plates of much of the garb of whatever time the particular book is covering. Should be able to find them on Amazon.
Glad to help. Var does wear great archer garb and she is right. I totally forgot the way I patterend my warrior garb, was based on the Hungarian army's style through an Osprey book. Look up Osprey books/publishing they specialize in arms/armor books on all nationalities. And they may be expensive, but worth it. And if not looking to buy check your library they should have something or the net always has sources.
Thank Milady Var and Milord Poldugarian Warrior, I will check those books out.
Will