Classic  Greek Linothorax

Used from: Ca. 500 - 300 BC

Used by: Greek infantrymen (hoplites) and officers of all classes

Price: $575 (base model)

Additional price for metal scales (as shown) and other embellishments

Authenticity Rating: 9-9.5

In the ancient world, metal armor was costly, as it had to be produced by hand, using metals that were mined by laborers.  The ancient Greeks discovered a way to minimize the amount of metal used for a warrior’s defenses, allowing him to focus his funds on the most indispensable piece - the helmet.  So, using the technology of layering that the Greeks are well-known for (even today with their delectable pastries!), they constructed a semi-flexible, yet rigid cuirass of multiple layers of linen.  Roughly comparable to our modern kevlar and ballistic nylon, the linothorax provided the wearer with excellent mobility, yet protected the torso against cutting and piercing blows.  Between 10 and 20 layers of linen were glued together and shaped to encircle the torso, with a special section cut and fitted to proect the upperback and shoulder area.  Often, the midriff of the linothorax was reinforced with metal scales of bronze (as seen above), if the wearer was affluent enough.  

The pattern for the linothorax is well attested on ceramic art and wall paintings.  Found in the tomb of Philip II, we see a cuirass made from steel that corroborates this particular pattern, and reminds us that only the wealthiest of individuals could afford armor made entirely of metal.  At right, we see a replica of Alexander the Great's linothorax, as seen on the famous Pompeii mosaic. The advent of the linothorax allowed even the less affluent citizens of Greek city states to don armor and defend their nation, while the more affluent ones might have worn a bronze muscle cuirass for torso protection.  But the inherent advantages of the linothorax, such as lightness and relative flexibility, made this the choice of many, regardless of wealth, and as such sparked a trend that treated this as a standard form of armor for at least two centuries.

Imperium Ancient Armory now provides a custom made version of the linothorax, using real linen cloth, hand cut and glued, shaped and cut to your measurements.  Our superior local craftsmen carefully fashion this cuirass in much the same way as did the ancient Greeks, unlocking for you the passage to a world of historical wonderment and the pride of the Greek city states. 

The basic cuirass comes made to order, as per your measurements, finished with a layer of white primer and ready to be painted the color of your choice.  Additional features may be added for a fee, such as custom colors or paint schemes, edging with linen tape or stitched leather edging, brass scales around the midriff, applique devices of mythological figures, such as Medusa, or the like.  Please inquire about the availability and pricing of these features.