Elements from a Partial Suit of Armor, c. 1510-30. Germany, 16th century. Steel with black paint; This partial suit of armor contains a close helmet, breastplate, and backplate. Below the breast plate is the fauld, plates of armor that extend below the breastplate to protect the waist and hips. The breastplate includes a lance rest, a metal flange that could be brought down when needed. The lance rest helps spread the impact of a blow through the breastplate to the torso of the wearer, thus redirecting the force of the blow away from the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder. The helmet is a true "close helmet"; it pivots open at the rivets on the side and completely protects the face when lowered.