Gauntlets

Gauntlets were armored gloves used in medieval Europe. Gauntlets usually had a stiff cuff attached to plates which overlapped each other from the knuckles back to the wrist. The knuckles were protected by a raised or embossed plate which attached to the small finger plates. The finger plates numbered four on the pinkie to six on the middle finger (this varied with hand size). The thumb had similar protection but was only connected to the cuff by a leaf plate to allow the digit freedom of movement. The metal portion of the gauntlet was attached to a leather glove inside it. Obviously, gauntlets varied in materials and embellishment depending on whether they were war, jousting, or ceremonial types.

   On an interesting note, the phrase “throw down the gauntlet” derives from medieval Europe. One knight could challenge another by throwing his gloves (gauntlets) on the ground before the other knight. If the other knight picked up the gauntlets, he accept the challenge and the two fought.