This is the first volume to bring together all the hitherto scattered evidence—archaeological, literary, and artistic—for the forms and uses of scale and lamellar armors in the region west of the Urals throughout the two thousand years during which these armors were used. Lamellar armor differs from the earlier scale armor in not needing a backing for the individual pieces of leather, iron, or bronze. The interpretation of this meticulous collection of data is informed by the author’s decades-long practical experience as a maker of arms and armor, martial artist, and horseman. It offers systematic definitions and analysis of these often misunderstood forms of armor, along with detailed diagrams and instructions that will be of great use to any who wish to turn their hands to reconstruction. Along the way, this unique synthesis of evidence and interpretation debunks myths that have arisen in recent years.

Armour Never Wearies Scale and Lamellar Armour in the West, from the Bronze Age to the 19th Century

History

Dawson, Timothy

Military

Spellmount

Osprey's survey of Byzantine infantrymen during the Middle Ages. Having been trained to operate in small, highly mobile eight-man units adept at living off the land whilst on campaign, the Byzantine infantryman was a formidable foe. Built on a strong belief system that emphasized stealth, surprise, swift maneuvering, and overwhelming force, the Byzantine infantryman was trained in survival, sword, spear and archery techniques, as well as land and sea combat and fighting within the foulkon "turtle" formation.
This book, written by Timothy Dawson, an expert in the training and techniques of the Byzantine Army, details the everyday experience of the infantryman from his recruitment, through his twice-a-day training regime, to his encounters with his enemies.

Byzantine Infantryman: Eastern Roman Empire c.900-1204 (Warrior, 118)

Europe

Osprey_Publishing

Osprey's study of the Byzantine cavalrymen, who were regarded as the elite arm of the military during the Middle Byzantine period (867-1204). The cavalry executed high speed reconnaissance, agile arrow barrages and crippling blows to enemy formations. Its ranks were filled primarily through direct recruitment or hereditary service by holders of military lands, but in times of crisis irregulars would be temporarily enlisted. Few books provide any accessible study of the medieval Romaic soldier's life, and this colorful addition to the Warrior series seeks to redress this imbalance. Offering a thorough and detailed examination of their training, weaponry, dress and daily life, this book re-affirms the importance of cavalry troops in military victories of the period. Making use of original Greek source material, and featuring unpublished manuscript images, this follow-on volume to Warrior 118 Byzantine Infantryman c.900-1204 brings the world of the Byzantine cavalryman vividly to life.

Byzantine Cavalryman c.900–1204 (Warrior)

By the sixth century of the common era the Roman Empire already had many hundreds of years of accumulated ceremony embedded in its government, and practical science embodied in its army. The transition from Republic to Imperium and the more hierarchical structure that entailed, and the absorption of Christianity into state processes, had pushed the development of court ceremonial apace, and particularly driven its embodiment and display in ever more opulent regalia. The regalia embraced not only garments of distinctive form and decoration, but also both dress and non-dress accessories. It was crucial in displaying rank and function on an everyday basis, yet was also varied considerably for special occasions. Military dress largely reflected forms current amongst ordinary men, but with an emphasis on functionality, eschewing the excesses of fashion. Detailed literary and artistic sources, archaeology and insights derived from reconstruction and practical experience has gone into creating an incredibly lavish picture of the clothing of the longest-enduring political entity in history.

By the Emperor’s Hand: Military Dress and Court Regalia in the Later Romano-Byzantine Empire

Arts & Photography

Sumner, Graham

Graphic Design

Frontline Books

See the best price to sell, buy, or rent books by Dawson, Timothy. BookScouter helps to compare book prices from 25+ online bookstores and 30+ buyback vendors with a single search.

Books by Dawson, Timothy