Cyclas, scapular, brown

Product description

During the High and Late Middle Ages, monks from monastic orders wore a tabard over their tunic. Fastened with a belt, it was a humble garment worn by the lower classes — farmers and foot soldiers alike. It protected the tunic and other clothing underneath from dirt during work.

From the twelfth century onward, knights wore surcoats over their plate armor. Historians believe the tradition of wearing a white surcoat started during the Crusades, as the light color reflected heat away from the plate armor. Over time, knights adopted other colors as well. By the thirteenth century, a knight's heraldic devices were displayed on the surcoat so allies and enemies could identify him in battle.

Wear this tabard as the simple garment of a monk, farmer, or foot soldier, or as a surcoat over plate armor. You can also decorate it with your own heraldry or customize it with the cross of a knight order.