Research

There are two main types of research, and a true understanding of any topic will not come from one type exclusively. Namely, these types are the research of facts and data, and the research of personal experience. I strongly encourage both types of research. This page, along with the references in the library, is to be used as a starting point to give researchers ideas. I'm researching these things myself so this is by no means the entire story.

This information is provided for educational reasons. Where possible I have referenced authorities in the field, but even their information is not always their own.

Articles

Technology and the Advancement of Medieval Arms and Armour: Part I
This is a paper I started for a school class. It discusses the development of arms and armour from the fall of the Western Empire until the end of the 13th century. Eventually it will be fleshed out more to go further in depth. This has been my main time period of research. Someday I would like to write a Part II starting in the 14th century.

Raising a Helm: A pictorial article on forging a kettle helm
This is a step by step look at how I raised a 13th century style kettle helm. This was the technique used by medieval armourers to make helms for many centuries. This was my first raising project and I did it with very basic equipment.

Cauldrons and the Development of Cast Iron for Domestic Use
This paper looks at the history of cauldrons from Celtic times until after the Renaissance. Early cauldrons were made with copper alloys in multiple riveted or soldered sheets or they were cast. In the middle ages, these techniques transferred over into use with iron, but casting was not yet possible. As Europeans developed the techniques for casting iron, cast iron cauldrons began replacing cast bronze versions because of the difference in cost. Cast iron eventually became the standard material for large cauldrons.

Early coats-of-plates and my reproduction based on St. Maurice
This article looks at references and sources to early coats-of-plates, generally in the 13th century. My reproduction is based off of the 1250 statue of St. Maurice. The history and construction of this example is focused on.

Iron Corrosion in Archeology
This brief essay looks at the different available methods of iron conservation. The various difficulties are explored for the techniques of corrosion removal and ways to resist future corrosion are introduced.

How I Built a Serpent
This picture article shows how I carved this unusual Renaissance instrument out of plywood.