Roman gladiators called crupellarii wore metal hand guards which were called manica, a latin word that means sleeve. The origin of these metal hand guards or manica can be traced back to the Achaemenid times where _cheires_ or hoops of metal were worn by cavalrymen on their rein arm. Hooped armor was popular within the Saka, Parthian and Kushan kingdoms and was used on both arms and legs. In 21 AD, Roman troops fought gladiators in the revolt of Florus and Sacrovir. The only evidence of the manica came from the Tajan_s Dacian Wars. The Manica and the graves were supplemental to the metal armor worn by Roman troops depicted in the Trajan_s Column. The purpose of these metal arm guards or manica was as protection against the Dacian falces which were two-handed weapons that can hit with great force. Wearing this costume in a Halloween costume party will surely make you stand out in the dark. Important Features:
_ Size : 20_
_ Finish : Silver
_ Material : Metal