Roman Cavalry Equipment

Drawing on written records, coins, inscriptions and other archaeological evidence, the authors present a detailed picture of how the Roman cavalryman and his horse were equipped.

Ablaze with colour, mounted on an armoured horse, metal body armour glinting in the sun, spear in one hand and double-edged sword hanging at his side, the Roman cavalryman must have been a dazzling and magnificent sight. Essentially the medieval knights of their day, the Roman cavalry was an impressive and considerable force that greatly contributed to the Roman Empire’s success.

This comprehensive account considers every aspect of cavalry equipment throughout the centuries of the Western Roman Empire: protective armour (helmets, shields and body armour), weaponry (swords, daggers, spears and archery equipment), horse armour (chamfron, crinet and peytrals) and a wide range of miscellaneous equipment (standards, spurs and musical instruments).

With detailed descriptions and beautiful colour illustrations, I.P. Stephenson and K.R. Dixon skilfully bring the Roman cavalryman back to life.