The hourglass gauntlet marks one of the earliest mature stages in the development of plate hand armour, appearing as armourers moved from simple mail gloves toward individually shaped steel components through the 14th century. The style takes its modern name from the shape of the cuff, narrowing sharply in around the wrist before flaring outward over the lower forearm, a design that gave real wrist mobility while offering broad coverage over the lower forearm. This reproduction is worked in 16-gauge steel for a heavier, more durable build, recreating that classic 14th-century form as a matched pair.
14th Century Hourglass Gauntlets, 16-Gauge, Pair
Hourglass gauntlets take their name from their distinctive shape: a cuff that narrows sharply at the wrist before flaring open toward the forearm, giving each gauntlet a silhouette like the sand-timer it’s named for. This 16-gauge steel version offers a heavier, more robust build than lighter alternatives, suited to wearers prioritising durability. First appearing as mail gloves gave way to shaped steel plates through the 14th century, this style remained popular for more than fifty years.
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