The bronze cuirass was a type of body armor used primarily by Greek, Etruscan, and Roman warriors, as well as other ancient cultures. It was made from hammered bronze sheets molded to fit the torso, offering protection for the chest and back. The cuirass was typically shaped to mimic the human musculature, giving it a distinct and iconic appearance.
Part of the Hoplite Panoply: In ancient Greece, the bronze cuirass was a key component of the hoplite panoply (the full set of armor and weapons). It provided protection against spear and sword thrusts in the close-quarters combat of the phalanx formation. Combined with a helmet, greaves, and a large aspis shield, the cuirass formed a central part of a hoplite's defense.
