PLATE II
THE BEAUCHAMP EFFIGY
During the fifteenth century and somewhat later, new modes in armour, as well as in dress, had their birth in Italy; but they took some time to travel to other countries less advanced in fashion and refinement. Much artistic skill of the highest order was lavished on the enrichment of armour. Suits were delicately chased, engraved and decorated with repoussé work; and artists of the highest celerity were engaged in such work. The trapper of mixed mail and plate appears frequently in this century.
A very important paper, printed in Archæologia, LVII, by Viscount Dillon, p.s.a., read in 1899, deals with a MS. Collection of Ordinances of Chivalry of the fifteenth century belonging to Lord Hastings, which contains among other matters:—
The “Abilment for the Justes of the Pees.” “To crie a Justus of Pees.” “The comyng into the felde.” “To arme a man.”
The same manuscript is also commented on by the late Mr. Albert Way in the Archæological Journal of 1847.
Two of the illuminations depict jousting at the tilt, and another a combat on foot with axes before King Henry VI. The fight on foot, which took place in 1442, is between John Astley and Philip Boyle of Arragon. The lists, enclosed by an open railing, have at one end a stand for the king, who acted as judge, and four steps lead up to the tribune. On either side of the steps two men-at-arms are posted, holding long-shafted axes, and within the lists a herald is standing watching the fight. The combatants are wearing globose bascinets, which were the usual helmets for foot-fighting. They were roomy enough for plenty of padding against heavy blows from the axe. Boyle is armed with an axe having a blade on one side and a bec de faucon, or flook, on the other; while Astley’s weapon has a mail, or mallet, with three prongs, in place of the flook.
The terms of Sir Philip Boyle’s acceptance of the challenge are given in Lord Dillon’s paper.