Anatolia’s 15th-century martial heritage in the exhibition of the Islamic Civilization Center
It consists of a metal plate, a mesh of interlinked metal rings, and leather straps. The main plate of the armor is decorated with embossed ribs: needle-like in the lower part and slightly slanting in the upper part. Floral arabesque motifs have also been preserved between these decorations, as well as in the upper and lower sections of the armor. In its upper part, there is also a fragment of an inscription.
The side plates of the armor are attached to the main section by means of metal rings. The flexible ring mesh adapted to the warrior’s leg joints, allowing freedom of movement. The surviving leather straps were used to secure the armor to the leg. Such 15th-century leg armor is associated with the political and cultural environment of the Qara Qoyunlu and Aq Qoyunlu Turks. Later, similar forms of armor were also used in Ottoman military traditions.
Today, this object is valuable not only as a piece of military equipment, but also as a historical source that reflects the combination of medieval military culture, craftsmanship, and decorative art.