Chests, sacks and cases: the storage of arms and armour in the Middle Ages

Medieval military equipment was more than the shine of steel, gold and gemstones – most of the time, it was a collection of items requiring proper storage. As we admire the depictions of arms and armour in the medieval art, it is easy to forget that all military gear was kept in a variety of containers and covers intended to protect it from the elements, bumpy roads and insects. However, this hidden aspect of the medieval material culture was very important as it ensured long-term preservation of the arms which tended to be rather expensive. Therefore, it would be of interest to compile the written sources on what kinds of containers and covers were used, and what materials were used in their manufacture. This article reviews the mentions of containers used for the storage and transport of armour and weapons from a range of administrative records and knightly romances dating to the late 12th - early 15th century, and the few available visual sources