Scale mail shoulder pattern

A great choice for a medieval-inspired armor design!

The scale mail shoulder pattern I'll describe is a common design used in medieval armor, particularly in the 12th to 15th centuries. This pattern is characterized by overlapping scales or plates that provide protection for the shoulder area.

Pattern Description:

The scale mail shoulder pattern consists of a series of overlapping scales or plates that cover the shoulder area, from the base of the neck to the top of the shoulder blade. The scales are typically arranged in a specific pattern to provide maximum protection and mobility.

Here's a breakdown of the pattern:

1. Base Scale: The base scale is the largest scale at the bottom of the shoulder, covering the area from the base of the neck to the top of the shoulder blade. This scale is usually the thickest and most protective.
2. Middle Scales: The middle scales are smaller than the base scale and are arranged in a staggered pattern to provide additional protection. These scales cover the area from the top of the shoulder blade to the shoulder joint.
3. Top Scales: The top scales are the smallest and are arranged in a single row, covering the area from the shoulder joint to the top of the shoulder.
4. Shoulder Plate: Some scale mail designs include a shoulder plate, which is a larger, flat plate that covers the entire shoulder area. This plate is often attached to the scales using rivets or other fasteners.

Arrangement:

The scales are arranged in a specific pattern to provide maximum protection and mobility. Here's a common arrangement:

• The base scale is positioned at the bottom of the shoulder, with the edge of the scale facing downwards.
• The middle scales are arranged in a staggered pattern, with each scale overlapping the one below it by about half its width.
• The top scales are arranged in a single row, with each scale overlapping the one below it by about half its width.
• The shoulder plate (if present) is positioned on top of the scales, covering the entire shoulder area.

Benefits:

This scale mail shoulder pattern provides several benefits, including:

• Protection: The overlapping scales provide excellent protection against slashing and piercing attacks.
• Mobility: The design allows for a full range of motion, making it suitable for combat and other activities.
• Adjustability: The scales can be adjusted to fit the individual wearer's shoulder shape and size.

Variations:

While this is a common scale mail shoulder pattern, there are variations and regional differences in design. Some examples include:

• Kite-shaped scales: Some designs feature kite-shaped scales that are wider at the top and narrower at the bottom.
• Lamellar construction: Some scale mail designs use lamellar construction, where the scales are connected by metal strips or rivets.
• Regional influences: Scale mail designs can vary depending on the region and cultural influences. For example, the Byzantine Empire used a different scale mail design than the European kingdoms.

I hope this helps you in your medieval armor design endeavors!