Are you kitted out to live in the 15th Century? – by Mick Knibbs
Clothing in the 15th century was of good quality for every one, the poor just wore one set more, and made it last longer.
Head Dress everyone, male and female, wore it in some form or other. When picking your headers, think of two factors; the status of the individual that you are portraying and, what you will be doing whilst wearing it. Below is an extract from 1471’s hand book.
The chaperon in Fig 3 is perfect to represent the high status of the squires, but (speaking from my own experience of wearing one) is a total liability when doing anything other than eating at banquets and posing. Any of the stryles shown may be worn, but what sets one above the rest is quality and decoration e.g. jewelled badges and exotic feathers.
Badges where worn on clothing and in head dress fall into 3 main categories
1. Pilgrim badges – these were the medieval version of religious merchandising sold by the church at various sites throughout Europe.
Whilst on the subject of livery, anyone thinking of getting a posh necklace made of interlocking S’s or L’s BEWARE, these were worn only by the highest ranking people and were a sign of allegiance or a chain of office S=Yorkist, and L=Lancastrian
Eating and Drinking utensils were carried everywhere, these normally consisted of a spoon and a knife. Forks were starting to be used by the gentry, but this was by no means commonplace. The spoons were made of wood and bone for the lower orders, those with money used pewter or silver. Everyone carried a knife!
Knives, squires will carry the all purpose eating knife, plus a fighting knife or dagger, this is partly to carry out the unpleasant task of killing any seriously injured horses, or for cutting his injured knight out of his armour. The armour was fastened with leather thongs, straps and bits of string called points.
Points, these are very important bits of kit that resemble a modern shoelace. The points are used to fasten clothing, attach loose sleeves and very importantly HOLDING UP HOSE. Points are short pieces of cord or leather tipped at each end with metal to ease threading. Leather is very difficult to untie when wet, the cord can be coloured to match or contrast with the garments worn.
Cups and mugs were often carried on the belt or in a bag similar to the modern bum bag for women. The cups were made from many different materials. Leather drinking vessels are great for the kids, as they are difficult to break, however do not put hot or fizzy drinks in these as it damages the pitch seals.
Religion was a very important part of 15th century life, and as such practically every one carried a set of rosary beads.
Finally I would like to recommend two traders on the circuit for some of the items required;
Pewter spoons and badges – Lion Heart Replicas
Pottery, jugs, bowls, mugs, and
cups – Jim the Potter
Both of which can be found in the pages of Call to Arms magazine
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