English: Gauntlets, about 1614 V&A Museum no. 1386&A-1888

These gauntlets, or gloves, are made of steel damascened with a design of military trophies, palm branches and wreaths, referring to their military use. The technique of damascening uses gold or silver to decorate a base metal such as iron or brass. After a design is traced over on the object, a hammer and punch is used to push gold or silver wire into prepared channels on the base metal surface.

These gauntlets are thought to be part of a set of three suits of armour made for the sons of Philip III of Spain (1609-1641). Very grand, costly armour was part of the equipment for a prince or noble of this period. This suit used gold and silver as well as a beautiful crimson silk lining with gold and silver embroidery.