Empire - User contributions [en]

Clemency guidance

2016-07-16T12:23:14Z

Gereon:

<noinclude>
This is a copy of a document published by the Magistrates in Summer 378.
<ic>
</noinclude>
==Clemency – A guide for priests==
This guide is intended to provide additional guidance to priests to assist them in making pleas for clemency. I stand as the author of this document which will provide you with insights into the established legal processes in this area, as described by a serving magistrate.

===The Basics===
When a person who is charged with a crime comes before the Court they have a choice – to plead guilty or not guilty. If, and only if, they plead guilty then they may ask for a priest to plead for clemency on their behalf.

Normally the accused will have been given time before the trial to find a priest, to make their confession and to explain their actions. If this time has not been given the defendant should ask the Court for a short adjournment to make such arrangements.

No priest is obliged to make a plea for clemency. If the priest accepts this duty then they should take care to examine the facts of the case in detail. The priest must then use their own judgement of the virtues of the act in question. They will be called as a witness to present a short plea for clemency to the Court. Precisely how the priest deals with this is entirely up to the priest – indeed if the priest feels there is no virtue in the act then there is nothing wrong with the plea stating exactly that. The priest is not obliged to only present a case in support of the defendant. Priests should be aware that they will need to persuade the magistrate as to the virtues of the act in question.

===What is the Magistrate looking for in a clemency plea?===
The magistrate is looking for facts which substantiate the defendant's actions as being virtuous. They are interested in the actual reasons in the mind of the defendant at the time of, and before the crime (rather than rationalisations afterwards). Talking about the motivation and pre-meditation of the defendant may well help the plea by demonstrating the argument within the defendant's mind about the virtues of the act.

Magistrates appreciate it when the priest is as concise as possible, and does not dwell on the agreed facts of the case. They should avoid re-arguing the facts of the case as if they were now trying to prove the defendant not guilty (it is too late for that!) It is generally better to focus on one or two of the most appropriate Virtues, rather than many. If there is a relevant historic example of Virtuous behaviour which addresses the same issues then referring to this may also be persuasive.

===What Clemency is not===
A plea for clemency in no way obligates the magistrate to release the defendant. There is no automatic immunity for the defendant, just because a priest says the act was virtuous. Normally one might expect to see a direct effect from a successful plea– such as the commutation of a death sentence to a lesser punishment. However, this is not always the case. This may not mean the plea was unsuccessful, but it may have had insufficient weight to reduce the appropriate punishment below the threshold for execution. The more heinous the crime, the harder it will be for the clemency plea to have an actual effect on the outcome.

===Some Notes on "the hero's burden"===
A common subject of a plea is that the crime was necessary for the greater good. Magistrates are likely to consider persuasive, arguments which satisfactorily address the following sorts of issues:
1) Why was due process unable to deal with the situation?
2) Why did the burden fall upon this individual?
3) Was the crime proportionate to the burden?

The fact alone that due process has not dealt with the issue is not enough. There must be an element of urgency – a deadline of some sort that prevents the due process from being effective in addressing the situation.

Magistrates will also consider why it fell to this person to break the law to deal with the situation. Why them and no one else? Did the urgency of the situation demand it, was there no one else they could turn to for help?

The third point is simply that this burden does not permit the hero to justify anything they want. Their actions must be proportionate to the circumstances. As a further aside it should be noted that magistrates may view with suspicion those necessary “acts of virtue” which leave the only other witness dead and therefore unable to defend themselves.

===Clemency example case study===
Alyosha, a simple farmer, has been accused of the theft of 2 bags of grain from the barn of a near neighbour. Alyosha accepts the facts of the case, and his guilt, and asks a priest to plead for clemency at his trial.

Without clemency, the full weight of the law will bear down upon him since the assumption by the court will be that there is no mitigation. The priest needs to convince the magistrate that the act was virtuous, or had at least aspects of virtue for any lessening of sentence. The better the plea, the greater the reduction in sentence.

'''Example 1''' 
The priest simply informs the court that Alyosha stole the grain to feed his family, a necessary act for their prosperity.

''Result:'' Minimal, if no effect on the outcome. The priest has not elaborated on the reason for the need for the act. Even a career criminal needs to feed their family. That does not make his thefts virtuous.

'''Example 2''' 
The priest argues that Alyosha's family were on the brink of starvation and that he acted out of Loyalty to them and for their Prosperity. He acted Courageously, seizing the chance to take the grain in knowledge that he could be punished if caught. He was wise because it would be foolish to allow his family to starve. He had shown Ambition by the audacity of the theft And finally the act of saving his family gave him, and his family, Pride that he had been Vigilant in his duties as head of the household for them to survive.

''Result:'' Minimal. Whilst the priest has elaborated on the reason for the theft – that his family were starving – she has not explored the reasoning why the theft was the only possible route of action. Further, by listing all seven virtues with trivial interpretation she creates the impression that she is not clear how Alyosha is virtuous but will try anything to help. It is better to concentrate on as few Virtues as possible.

'''Example 3''' 
The priest argues that Alyosha's family were on the brink of starvation and that he acted out for their Prosperity. She explains that the risk of starvation was caused because a band of barbarians had raided his farm, stealing his stores and burning his crops. He had stolen one of the bags to provide just enough grain to keep his family alive until the next harvest, and a second bag of seed grain to ensure he had a harvest to plant. Further, in choosing the victim he choose a miserly, unvirtuous individual who he knew had more than enough grain, rather than steal from those with little, for he wished to minimise the effects on the prosperity of others

''Result:'' Greatly reduced sentence, with minimal financial burden. By concentrating on Alyosha's virtue of Prosperity and elaborating further on the motivation and Alyosha's thoughts on the Virtue before committing the crime the Priest has been at least partly convincing. She has plead that Alyosha believed the crime necessary and in his choice of victim and the size of the theft had sought to minimise the damage he caused. What he has not demonstrated is the reason why the act of breaking the law was absolutely necessary.

'''Example 4''' 
In this example the priest pleads identically to example 3, except that she elaborates further on the actions Alyosha and his family performed after the raid, but before the theft. Here he explains that Alyosha created a plan to preserve the prosperity of his family which they all enacted. His wife and young children worked hard to recover what they could from the burnt fields and barn – his wife had collapsed from her labours and the fingers of his four year old son were covered with blood from trying to scrape the few lost grains from cracks in the barn floor and walls. Alyosha himself had rounded up anything of value that he could spare and sold it in the village and spent the rest of his time calling on friends and neighbours to ask for help. None had offered any. He had petitioned the local authorities, on behalf of all those in a similar position and whilst he had been given assurances that “something will be done” no immediate aid was forthcoming and there was no sign that any form of alms would arrive before death.

The priest further explains that Alyosha has thought long and hard before committing his crime and has done his utmost to minimise the damage to the Prosperity of others. He did not immediately hand himself in to the authorities after the act only because he wanted to immediately feed his family and plant at least some of the seed, but has never denied his crime when apprehended.

''Result'': The magistrate releases Alyosha without sanction. Here the priest has explained the full course of actions, He has demonstrated that the normal “due process” would likely have led to the death of his entire family. Talking about Alyosha's pre-meditation has done no harm. A rash or unconsidered act is much less likely to be the act of the virtuous.

<noinclude>
</ic>
</noinclude>

Clemency

2016-07-16T12:22:53Z

Gereon: /* Clemency Guidance */

==Overview==
Clemency is a power possessed by members of the [[Imperial Synod]] to plead for a reduced sentence during a [[Criminal Trials|criminal trial]]..
==Confession and clemency==
* A Synod priest that has granted a citizen [[Sanctuary|sanctuary]] may take that citizen's confession, or they may permit another Synod priest to do so.
* A Synod member who has taken confession may accompany the fugitive to their trial to plead for clemency.
* A plea for clemency must be made on Virtuous grounds. To be effective the priest must present a clear case that demonstrates that the actions of the accused were Virtuous, albeit illegal.
* It is not possible to submit a plea for clemency unless the accused pleads guilty at the start of their trial.

==Clemency Guidance==
These notes are taken from a [[Clemency guidance|document]] published by the Magistrates in Summer 378YE, written by Magistrate Reinholz. They are designed to help priests better formulate their claims for clemency.
{{:Clemency guidance}}

<ic>Wayfarer Isaac looked through the flap of the tent at the waiting orcs, who in turn were watching the sand trickle through the hourglass. Isaac took a breath and let out an inaudible sigh as he turned his attention back to young pilgrim who had made her way to the tent.

"...and I cut him nearly in two. As he dropped to the floor, I took another swing and, just like that, two pieces."

Isaac winced at the glee in the zealot's voice. "And pray tell me which virtue was foremost in your heart as you slew the yeoman?"

"Vigilance, of course. On the grounds that he was a briar who had been hiding it and clearly up to something."

Isaac shook his head slowly, musing once again that loyalty was proving a difficult path to walk this day. "I shall accompany you to your trial, but I recommend you use the remaining time available to us to put your affairs in order."</ic>

[[Category:Synod]] [[Category:The Law]]

Clemency guidance

2016-07-16T12:21:44Z

Gereon: Add formatting (headlines etc.) after having checked that the content is at least mostly identical.

This is a copy of a document published by the Magistrates in Summer 378.

<noinclude>
<ic>
</noinclude>
==Clemency – A guide for priests==
This guide is intended to provide additional guidance to priests to assist them in making pleas for clemency. I stand as the author of this document which will provide you with insights into the established legal processes in this area, as described by a serving magistrate.

===The Basics===
When a person who is charged with a crime comes before the Court they have a choice – to plead guilty or not guilty. If, and only if, they plead guilty then they may ask for a priest to plead for clemency on their behalf.

Normally the accused will have been given time before the trial to find a priest, to make their confession and to explain their actions. If this time has not been given the defendant should ask the Court for a short adjournment to make such arrangements.

No priest is obliged to make a plea for clemency. If the priest accepts this duty then they should take care to examine the facts of the case in detail. The priest must then use their own judgement of the virtues of the act in question. They will be called as a witness to present a short plea for clemency to the Court. Precisely how the priest deals with this is entirely up to the priest – indeed if the priest feels there is no virtue in the act then there is nothing wrong with the plea stating exactly that. The priest is not obliged to only present a case in support of the defendant. Priests should be aware that they will need to persuade the magistrate as to the virtues of the act in question.

===What is the Magistrate looking for in a clemency plea?===
The magistrate is looking for facts which substantiate the defendant's actions as being virtuous. They are interested in the actual reasons in the mind of the defendant at the time of, and before the crime (rather than rationalisations afterwards). Talking about the motivation and pre-meditation of the defendant may well help the plea by demonstrating the argument within the defendant's mind about the virtues of the act.

Magistrates appreciate it when the priest is as concise as possible, and does not dwell on the agreed facts of the case. They should avoid re-arguing the facts of the case as if they were now trying to prove the defendant not guilty (it is too late for that!) It is generally better to focus on one or two of the most appropriate Virtues, rather than many. If there is a relevant historic example of Virtuous behaviour which addresses the same issues then referring to this may also be persuasive.

===What Clemency is not===
A plea for clemency in no way obligates the magistrate to release the defendant. There is no automatic immunity for the defendant, just because a priest says the act was virtuous. Normally one might expect to see a direct effect from a successful plea– such as the commutation of a death sentence to a lesser punishment. However, this is not always the case. This may not mean the plea was unsuccessful, but it may have had insufficient weight to reduce the appropriate punishment below the threshold for execution. The more heinous the crime, the harder it will be for the clemency plea to have an actual effect on the outcome.

===Some Notes on "the hero's burden"===
A common subject of a plea is that the crime was necessary for the greater good. Magistrates are likely to consider persuasive, arguments which satisfactorily address the following sorts of issues:
1) Why was due process unable to deal with the situation?
2) Why did the burden fall upon this individual?
3) Was the crime proportionate to the burden?

The fact alone that due process has not dealt with the issue is not enough. There must be an element of urgency – a deadline of some sort that prevents the due process from being effective in addressing the situation.

Magistrates will also consider why it fell to this person to break the law to deal with the situation. Why them and no one else? Did the urgency of the situation demand it, was there no one else they could turn to for help?

The third point is simply that this burden does not permit the hero to justify anything they want. Their actions must be proportionate to the circumstances. As a further aside it should be noted that magistrates may view with suspicion those necessary “acts of virtue” which leave the only other witness dead and therefore unable to defend themselves.

===Clemency example case study===
Alyosha, a simple farmer, has been accused of the theft of 2 bags of grain from the barn of a near neighbour. Alyosha accepts the facts of the case, and his guilt, and asks a priest to plead for clemency at his trial.

Without clemency, the full weight of the law will bear down upon him since the assumption by the court will be that there is no mitigation. The priest needs to convince the magistrate that the act was virtuous, or had at least aspects of virtue for any lessening of sentence. The better the plea, the greater the reduction in sentence.

'''Example 1''' 
The priest simply informs the court that Alyosha stole the grain to feed his family, a necessary act for their prosperity.

''Result:'' Minimal, if no effect on the outcome. The priest has not elaborated on the reason for the need for the act. Even a career criminal needs to feed their family. That does not make his thefts virtuous.

'''Example 2''' 
The priest argues that Alyosha's family were on the brink of starvation and that he acted out of Loyalty to them and for their Prosperity. He acted Courageously, seizing the chance to take the grain in knowledge that he could be punished if caught. He was wise because it would be foolish to allow his family to starve. He had shown Ambition by the audacity of the theft And finally the act of saving his family gave him, and his family, Pride that he had been Vigilant in his duties as head of the household for them to survive.

''Result:'' Minimal. Whilst the priest has elaborated on the reason for the theft – that his family were starving – she has not explored the reasoning why the theft was the only possible route of action. Further, by listing all seven virtues with trivial interpretation she creates the impression that she is not clear how Alyosha is virtuous but will try anything to help. It is better to concentrate on as few Virtues as possible.

'''Example 3''' 
The priest argues that Alyosha's family were on the brink of starvation and that he acted out for their Prosperity. She explains that the risk of starvation was caused because a band of barbarians had raided his farm, stealing his stores and burning his crops. He had stolen one of the bags to provide just enough grain to keep his family alive until the next harvest, and a second bag of seed grain to ensure he had a harvest to plant. Further, in choosing the victim he choose a miserly, unvirtuous individual who he knew had more than enough grain, rather than steal from those with little, for he wished to minimise the effects on the prosperity of others

''Result:'' Greatly reduced sentence, with minimal financial burden. By concentrating on Alyosha's virtue of Prosperity and elaborating further on the motivation and Alyosha's thoughts on the Virtue before committing the crime the Priest has been at least partly convincing. She has plead that Alyosha believed the crime necessary and in his choice of victim and the size of the theft had sought to minimise the damage he caused. What he has not demonstrated is the reason why the act of breaking the law was absolutely necessary.

'''Example 4''' 
In this example the priest pleads identically to example 3, except that she elaborates further on the actions Alyosha and his family performed after the raid, but before the theft. Here he explains that Alyosha created a plan to preserve the prosperity of his family which they all enacted. His wife and young children worked hard to recover what they could from the burnt fields and barn – his wife had collapsed from her labours and the fingers of his four year old son were covered with blood from trying to scrape the few lost grains from cracks in the barn floor and walls. Alyosha himself had rounded up anything of value that he could spare and sold it in the village and spent the rest of his time calling on friends and neighbours to ask for help. None had offered any. He had petitioned the local authorities, on behalf of all those in a similar position and whilst he had been given assurances that “something will be done” no immediate aid was forthcoming and there was no sign that any form of alms would arrive before death.

The priest further explains that Alyosha has thought long and hard before committing his crime and has done his utmost to minimise the damage to the Prosperity of others. He did not immediately hand himself in to the authorities after the act only because he wanted to immediately feed his family and plant at least some of the seed, but has never denied his crime when apprehended.

''Result'': The magistrate releases Alyosha without sanction. Here the priest has explained the full course of actions, He has demonstrated that the normal “due process” would likely have led to the death of his entire family. Talking about Alyosha's pre-meditation has done no harm. A rash or unconsidered act is much less likely to be the act of the virtuous.

<noinclude>
</ic>
</noinclude>

Clemency guidance

2016-07-16T12:16:41Z

Gereon: Avoid text duplication: For it to not get lost, copy the corresponding text from “Clemency” to here.

This is a copy of a document published by the Magistrates in Summer 378.

<ic>

CLEMENCY – A GUIDE FOR PRIESTS

by Magistrate Reinholz

This guide is intended to provide additional guidance to priests to assist them in making pleas for clemency. I stand as the author of this document which will provide you with insights into the established legal processes in this area, as described by a serving magistrate.

THE BASICS

When a person who is charged with a crime comes before the Court they have a choice – to plead guilty or not guilty. If, and only if, they plead guilty then they may ask for a priest to plead for clemency on their behalf.

Normally the accused will have been given time before the trial to find a priest, to make their confession and to explain their actions. If this time has not been given the defendant should ask the Court for a short adjournment to make such arrangements.

No priest is obliged to make a plea for clemency. If the priest accepts this duty then they should take care to examine the facts of the case in detail. The priest must then use their own judgement of the virtues of the act in question. They will be called as a witness to present a short plea for clemency to the Court. Precisely how the priest deals with this is entirely up to the priest – indeed if the priest feels there is no virtue in the act then there is nothing wrong with the plea stating exactly that. The priest is not obliged to only present a case in support of the defendant. Priests should be aware that they will need to persuade the magistrate as to the virtues of the act in question.

WHAT IS THE MAGISTRATE LOOKING FOR IN A CLEMENCY PLEA?

The magistrate is looking for facts which substantiate the defendant's actions as being virtuous. They are interested in the actual reasons in the mind of the defendant at the time of, and before the crime (rather than rationalisations afterwards). Talking about the motivation and pre-meditation of the defendant may well help the plea by demonstrating the argument within the defendant's mind about the virtues of the act.

Magistrates appreciate it when the priest is as concise as possible, and does not dwell on the agreed facts of the case. They should avoid re-arguing the facts of the case as if they were now trying to prove the defendant not guilty (it is too late for that!) It is generally better to focus on one or two of the most appropriate Virtues, rather than many. If there is a relevant historic example of Virtuous behaviour which addresses the same issues then referring to this may also be persuasive.

WHAT CLEMENCY IS NOT

A plea for clemency in no way obligates the magistrate to release the defendant. There is no automatic immunity for the defendant, just because a priest says the act was virtuous. Normally one might expect to see a direct effect from a successful plea– such as the commutation of a death sentence to a lesser punishment. However, this is not always the case. This may not mean the plea was unsuccessful, but it may have had insufficient weight to reduce the appropriate punishment below the threshold for execution. The more heinous the crime, the harder it will be for the clemency plea to have an actual effect on the outcome.

SOME NOTES ON “THE HERO'S BURDEN”

A common subject of a plea is that the crime was necessary for the greater good. Magistrates are likely to consider persuasive, arguments which satisfactorily address the following sorts of issues:
1) Why was due process unable to deal with the situation?
2) Why did the burden fall upon this individual?
3) Was the crime proportionate to the burden?

The fact alone that due process has not dealt with the issue is not enough. There must be an element of urgency – a deadline of some sort that prevents the due process from being effective in addressing the situation.

Magistrates will also consider why it fell to this person to break the law to deal with the situation. Why them and no one else? Did the urgency of the situation demand it, was there no one else they could turn to for help?

The third point is simply that this burden does not permit the hero to justify anything they want. Their actions must be proportionate to the circumstances. As a further aside it should be noted that magistrates may view with suspicion those necessary “acts of virtue” which leave the only other witness dead and therefore unable to defend themselves.

CLEMENCY EXAMPLE CASE STUDY

Alyosha, a simple farmer, has been accused of the theft of 2 bags of grain from the barn of a near neighbour. Alyosha accepts the facts of the case, and his guilt, and asks a priest to plead for clemency at his trial.

Without clemency, the full weight of the law will bear down upon him since the assumption by the court will be that there is no mitigation. The priest needs to convince the magistrate that the act was virtuous, or had at least aspects of virtue for any lessening of sentence. The better the plea, the greater the reduction in sentence.

Example 1
The priest simply informs the court that Alyosha stole the grain to feed his family, a necessary act for their prosperity.

Result: Minimal, if no effect on the outcome. The priest has not elaborated on the reason for the need for the act. Even a career criminal needs to feed their family. That does not make his thefts virtuous.

Example 2
The priest argues that Alyosha's family were on the brink of starvation and that he acted out of Loyalty to them and for their Prosperity. He acted Courageously, seizing the chance to take the grain in knowledge that he could be punished if caught. He was wise because it would be foolish to allow his family to starve. He had shown Ambition by the audacity of the theft And finally the act of saving his family gave him, and his family, Pride that he had been Vigilant in his duties as head of the household for them to survive.

Result: Minimal. Whilst the priest has elaborated on the reason for the theft – that his family were starving – she has not explored the reasoning why the theft was the only possible route of action. Further, by listing all seven virtues with trivial interpretation she creates the impression that she is not clear how Alyosha is virtuous but will try anything to help. It is better to concentrate on as few Virtues as possible.

Example 3
The priest argues that Alyosha's family were on the brink of starvation and that he acted out for their Prosperity. She explains that the risk of starvation was caused because a band of barbarians had raided his farm, stealing his stores and burning his crops. He had stolen one of the bags to provide just enough grain to keep his family alive until the next harvest, and a second bag of seed grain to ensure he had a harvest to plant. Further, in choosing the victim he choose a miserly, unvirtuous individual who he knew had more than enough grain, rather than steal from those with little, for he wished to minimise the effects on the prosperity of others

Result: Greatly reduced sentence, with minimal financial burden. By concentrating on Alyosha's virtue of Prosperity and elaborating further on the motivation and Alyosha's thoughts on the Virtue before committing the crime the Priest has been at least partly convincing. She has plead that Alyosha believed the crime necessary and in his choice of victim and the size of the theft had sought to minimise the damage he caused. What he has not demonstrated is the reason why the act of breaking the law was absolutely necessary.

Example 4
In this example the priest pleads identically to example 3, except that she elaborates further on the actions Alyosha and his family performed after the raid, but before the theft. Here he explains that Alyosha created a plan to preserve the prosperity of his family which they all enacted. His wife and young children worked hard to recover what they could from the burnt fields and barn – his wife had collapsed from her labours and the fingers of his four year old son were covered with blood from trying to scrape the few lost grains from cracks in the barn floor and walls. Alyosha himself had rounded up anything of value that he could spare and sold it in the village and spent the rest of his time calling on friends and neighbours to ask for help. None had offered any. He had petitioned the local authorities, on behalf of all those in a similar position and whilst he had been given assurances that “something will be done” no immediate aid was forthcoming and there was no sign that any form of alms would arrive before death.

The priest further explains that Alyosha has thought long and hard before committing his crime and has done his utmost to minimise the damage to the Prosperity of others. He did not immediately hand himself in to the authorities after the act only because he wanted to immediately feed his family and plant at least some of the seed, but has never denied his crime when apprehended.

Result: The magistrate releases Alyosha without sanction. Here the priest has explained the full course of actions, He has demonstrated that the normal “due process” would likely have led to the death of his entire family. Talking about Alyosha's pre-meditation has done no harm. A rash or unconsidered act is much less likely to be the act of the virtuous.

</ic>

Skein of Years

2016-07-12T19:05:45Z

Gereon: /* Common Elements */

==Rules==
{{Season|Day|8}}

===Performing the Ritual===
{{Casting time|2}} The ritual targets a single item or object which must be present throughout and must possess a ribbon or a Profound Decisions ID code.

===Effects===
When the ritual is complete, the ritualists receive a vision during which key events in the history of the target item are revealed.

The older the object, the more likely information is to be uncovered, and the more information is likely to be revealed. Objects created in the last few years are extremely unlikely to reveal anything through the use of this ritual.

Information might include some or all of the following:
* Information about the crafter of the item and the method of its creation
* Information about owners or wielders of the item
* Information about significant events at which the item was present, especially if it was used in a pivotal manner
* Other significant details might be uncovered; experimentation with the ritual is ongoing

Unlike rituals such as [[Reading the Weave]], the Skein of Years does not require the target item to be crafted, and tends not to provide information about crafted properties the item may have possessed. Rather the ritual divines information about the physical object itself.

===Additional Magnitude===
You may increase the magnitude of the ritual to penetrate shrouds or masks designed to conceal information.

===OOC Note===
As with many such divination rituals, informing the referees well in advance - at least an hour - of the intent to perform this ritual will help to ensure that the information it provides can be prepared in advance and ideally provided as soon as the performance is complete.
{{CaptionedImage|file=SkeinOfYears.jpg|width=500|align=right|caption=With their concept of [[worth]], many [[Imperial Orcs]] find this ritual particularly useful}}
==Description==
Rituals that attempt to divine facts about an item have been woven spontaneously in the Empire for centuries. This ritual is the result of a project overseen by the [[Provost of the Halls of Knowledge]], Octavius, to codify and formalise those rituals. Much of the work on this ritual was performed by Tiberius Stormspire Cascade, whose experiments formed the basic pattern for the ritual design. It was added to [[Formulaic_ritual#Imperial_Lore_and_the_Ritual_List|Imperial Lore]] by a [[Declaration#Declaration of Imperial Lore|Declaration]] of the [[Imperial Conclave]] in Summer 378YE, and funded by a [[Disburse_funds_to_add_Skein_of_Years_to_Imperial_Lore|motion]] in the [[Imperial Senate]].

The ritual casts the mind's eye backwards into the past, tracing the origin and movements of a specific object. The ritualists performing The Skein of Years receive visions of significant events during the history of the object – events at which the item was present, or involved in some pivotal way. The visions tend to come in chronological order – usually the oldest first, sometimes the newest - but occasionally a vision may 'jump' back and forth between events that take part some time apart but are connected by some thematic element. The vision moves between distinct sub-visions, with no more than the vaugest sense of context given to place each section relative to the others chronologically. The visions generally told a cohesive story of the item's history, but it was impossible to tell over what time period it took place.

Using rituals such as Reading the Weave and [[Clear Lens of the Eternal River]] as a starting point, the researchers also looked to the Autumn magic of [[Hand of the Maker]] and [[Ties that Bind]] for inspiration. As a ritual of the Realm of Day, the visions received by the ritualists are not symbolic – they are usually clear snapshots or pieces of factual information although they may be incomplete. For example, when studying a mask at the [[The League magical traditions|Armetto Theatre]], Jessian d'Sarvos reported that only fleeting impressions of many of the dramaturgists who had worn the mask were received, with much more concrete impressions of the mask-maker who constructed it, and the famous performance by Chiara d'Holberg in her role as Gancio in “The Tailor of Holberg.”- considered by dramaturgic historians to be her finest performance.

Without doubt, the ritual does not perceive every single event that the item was involved in. Icewalker Gunnar theorised that this was why the ritual tended to be more effective on older items – that the older the item, the greater the number of events it had been involved in, meaning there was a greater chance of an event 'sticking' to the item.

Padme I Erigo, a scholar of the lores of both Night and Day, suggested that it would be possible to use Night magic to conceal the details of one or more events from the divinatory power of this ritual but as with most such workings, the presence of the obfuscatory enchantment would be impossible to conceal. She worked on formulating the method whereby the magic of the ritual might be focused to allow it to pierce such glamours, incorporating elements familiar to the adept from such rituals such as the [[Piercing Light of Revelation]].

The Navarr Iona of the Yellow Wind steading, visiting the Halls, gave a short lecture suggesting that the ritual effect was also possible with the Realm of Night, but that it would produce intuitive, symbolic visions focusing on emotions and sensations rather than clear, factual visions. Her assertion that this might be more useful than the stark imagery of the Day Realm was noted but largely discounted.

The ritual was originally called “The Lens of Insight into the Weave” by Octavius, the Provost of the Halls of Knowledge. Unfortunately for the Provost, the crotchety magus Lucien of the Halls of Knowledge staunchly refused to accept this name, which he considered “too wordy, and not actually a good description.” Lucien, who had travelled extensively in [[Wintermark]] in his youth, where he was exposed to the concept of the [[Wintermark_culture_and_customs#Skein|skein]]. Working closely with several [[Suaq]] [[Wintermark magical traditions#Icewalkers|Icewalkers]] during the development of this ritual, he insisted on referring to is as the Skein of Years in correspondence, and the name stuck. Lucien was responsible for drawing together the various threads of research, and was not above abusing this opportunity to stamp his own name on Octavius' project, in a manner not uncommon in academic circles.

==Common Elements==
The typical method of performing the ritual was laid down by the Provost from personal experimentation – a combination of rune magic and astronomantic principles. The constellation of the Phoenix was constructed during the ritual, using a series of runestones and candles. Each rune used in the construction was invoked in turn by all participants, before being placed upon a mirror in the appropriate position. Each contributing ritualist brought a personal magical dimension to their invocation.
After the constellation was constructed, the magic of the regio was invoked, and channelled into a lens while the crystals of mana that were to be used in the ritual were then added to the mirror, surrounding the constellation.

The core [[Rune Overview|runes]] used during the performance were [[Ophis]], [[Sular]] and [[Diras]] representing concepts of revelation, discovery and secrets. A more complex ritual pattern incorporated the [[Astronomancy|constellation]] of the [[The Spider and The Web#The Web|Web]], sometimes with the addition of the [[The Spider and The Web#The Spider|Spider]] or the [[The_Key_and_The_Lock#The_Key|Key]].

From a [[dramaturgy|dramaturgical]] perspective, the clarity of the [[The Doctor|Doctor]] proved to be quite useful, especially when the theatrical performance incorporated a sequence where the item was studied as part of an investigation. This lead an unpredictable element to the scene, as the dramaturgist would often reveal details of the item that had nothing to do with the context of the play. The challenge of incorporating these details into the ongoing narrative was either “refreshing”or “an unacceptable imposition on the other performers.”

The [[The Bishop|Bishop]] was a much less disruptive persona with which to focus the magic of the ritual, allowing the character to explain the history of an object to another (lesser) character, or to the chorus, often as part of a bequeathal or a lecture illustrating a certain moral or ethical point.

Initial exploration used a lens to examine the target object, similar to that employed in Clear Lens of the Eternal River, but it quickly became apparent that while such an item may serve as an aid to concentration or focus, it was not required. Promising experiments by the Navarr Ioana of the Yellow Wind steading incorporated the chewing of certain roots to sharpen the mind and senses while handling the target object, while an adept of the [[music of the spheres]] studying at the [[Zenith#The Halls of Knowledge|Halls of Knowledge]] developed a simple tune that could be hummed or played on a song bowl (or, as one irreverent student demonstrated, a wine glass) to achieve a similar focus.



[[Category:Day Ritual]]
[[Category:Rituals]]

Amity and enmity

2016-07-05T22:15:03Z

Gereon: /* Current Enmity */

==Overview==
The [[Imperial Conclave]] has the ability to [[Conclave_session#Declarations|declare]] amity or enmity towards an [[Eternals|eternal]].

Amity or Enmity towards an eternal is considered to apply to all that eternal's heralds. The Conclave may also occasionally extend amity or enmity towards a specific herald without changing the designation of other heralds or the patron eternal.

==Amity==
An eternal (and associated heralds) under Declaration of Amity gains the following rights:
* They receive protection under [[Imperial_Law_Overview|Imperial Law]]
* They can attend conclave meetings
* They may be nominated to speak before the conclave, although they cannot vote.
* They can place an Address or Declaration onto the conclave agenda under the normal rules as if they were Imperial citizens (the civil service does not accept realm-specific mana as payment).
* They can make [[Conclave_vault#Bequests|bequests]] to the [[Conclave vault|vault]] of a specific order or to the Conclave as a whole.

The declaration also has a magical effect. Eternals and their heralds find it easier to manifest in the Hall of Worlds and to move into Anvil.

===Current Amity===
<table>
<tr><th>Eternal</th><th>Declared By</th><th>Date</th></tr>
<tr><td>[[Barien]]</td><td>Corvus, Archmage of Summer</td><td></td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Cathan Canae]]</td><td>Corvus, Archmage of Summer</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Lashonar]]</td><td>Pavel</td><td>[[379YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Conclave_Declarations|379YE Autumn Equinox]]</tr>
<tr><td>[[Meraud]]</td><td>Corvus, Archmage of Summer</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Phaleron]], the Celestial Library</td><td>Archmage Mari Linkforge</td><td>[[379YE Summer Solstice Conclave sessions|379YE Summer Solstice]]</tr>
<tr><td>[[Sadogua]]</td><td>Simargl, The Empty One</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Ylenrith]]</td><td>Darius of the Spire of the Auric Horizon</td><td></td></tr>
</table>
<table>
<tr><th>Herald</th><th>Declared By</th><th>Date</th></tr>
<tr><td>Baxshula, Herald of [[Arhallogen]]</td><td> Rosamund Holt</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Gilean, Herald of [[Llofir]]</td><td>Rosamund Holt</td><td>[[379YE Summer Solstice Conclave sessions|379YE Summer Solstice]]</tr>
<tr><td>Kvaasi, Herald of [[Irra Harah]]</td><td>Rosamund Holt</td><td>[[379YE Summer Solstice Conclave sessions|379YE Summer Solstice]]</tr>
<tr><td>Mira, Herald of [[Irra Harah]]</td><td>Kalini</td><td>[[379YE Summer Solstice Conclave sessions|379YE Summer Solstice]]</tr>
<tr><td>Stormcrow Vora, Spring Child</td><td>Iulian, Archmage of Spring</td><td></td></tr>

<tr><td>Uk'ta the Messenger, Herald of [[Lashonar]]</td><td>Pavel, Archmage of Night</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Ylitha-Rose, Spring Child</td><td>Iulian, Archmage of Spring</td><td></td></tr>
</table>

==Enmity==
An eternal (and associated heralds) under Declaration of Enmity suffers the following penalties:
* Eternals and heralds under enmity count as barbarians for [[Imperial_Law_Overview#Individuals_and_the_law|legal purposes]].
* Trading or dealing with an eternal under enmity is illegal and will be investigated as [[List_of_Criminal_Offences#Crimes_of_Position|treason]].
* Any ritual that deals directly with an eternal subject to the declaration of enmity (such as [[Ephisis' Scale]] for [[Ephisis]], [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]] for [[Kaela]] or [[Missive for Sadogua]] for [[Sadogua]] and so on) is automatically considered to be [[Declaration#Declaration of Interdiction|interdicted]]; magistrates may seek the assistance of the [[archmage|archmagi]] to clarify which rituals this effects, unless there is a separate [[Conclave session#Declaration of Interdiction|declaration of interdiction]] against specific rituals.

The declaration also has magical effects. Eternals find it much harder to enter the Hall of Worlds. Heralds cannot use the portal in the Hall of Worlds to travel to Anvil without ritual assistance from an Imperial citizen.

===Current Enmity===
<table>
<tr><th>Eternal</th><th>Declared By</th><th>Date</th><th>Prohibited Rituals</th></tr>

<tr><td>[[Wendigo]]</td><td>Beloslava Velkovitch.</td><td>306 YE Winter Solstice</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Whisper Gallery]]</td><td>Gregore</td><td>[[379YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Conclave_Declarations|379YE Autumn Equinox]]</td><td>[[Whispering Shadow Courtiers]]</td></tr>
</table>

[[Category:Conclave]]
[[Category:The Law]]

Amity and enmity

2016-07-05T22:12:32Z

Gereon: /* Current Amity */

Amity and enmity

2016-07-05T22:12:02Z

Gereon: /* Current Amity */

==Overview==
The [[Imperial Conclave]] has the ability to [[Conclave_session#Declarations|declare]] amity or enmity towards an [[Eternals|eternal]].

Amity or Enmity towards an eternal is considered to apply to all that eternal's heralds. The Conclave may also occasionally extend amity or enmity towards a specific herald without changing the designation of other heralds or the patron eternal.

==Amity==
An eternal (and associated heralds) under Declaration of Amity gains the following rights:
* They receive protection under [[Imperial_Law_Overview|Imperial Law]]
* They can attend conclave meetings
* They may be nominated to speak before the conclave, although they cannot vote.
* They can place an Address or Declaration onto the conclave agenda under the normal rules as if they were Imperial citizens (the civil service does not accept realm-specific mana as payment).
* They can make [[Conclave_vault#Bequests|bequests]] to the [[Conclave vault|vault]] of a specific order or to the Conclave as a whole.

The declaration also has a magical effect. Eternals and their heralds find it easier to manifest in the Hall of Worlds and to move into Anvil.

===Current Amity===
<table>
<tr><th>Eternal</th><th>Declared By</th><th>Date</th></tr>
<tr><td>[[Barien]]</td><td>Corvus, Archmage of Summer</td><td></td></tr>

<tr><td>[[Cathan Canae]]</td><td>Corvus, Archmage of Summer</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Lashonar]]</td><td>Pavel</td><td>[[379YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Conclave_Declarations|379YE Autumn Equinox]]</tr>
<tr><td>[[Meraud]]</td><td>Corvus, Archmage of Summer</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Phaleron]], the Celestial Library</td><td>Archmage Mari Linkforge</td><td>[[379YE Summer Solstice Conclave sessions|379YE Summer Solstice]]</tr>
<tr><td>[[Sadogua]]</td><td>Simargl, The Empty One</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Ylenrith]]</td><td>Darius of the Spire of the Auric Horizon</td><td></td></tr>
</table>
<table>
<tr><th>Herald</th><th>Declared By</th><th>Date</th></tr>
<tr><td>Baxshula, Herald of [[Arhallogan]]</td><td> Rosamund Holt</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Gilean, Herald of [[Llofir]]</td><td>Rosamund Holt</td><td>[[379YE Summer Solstice Conclave sessions|379YE Summer Solstice]]</tr>
<tr><td>Kvaasi, Herald of [[Irra Harah]]</td><td>Rosamund Holt</td><td>[[379YE Summer Solstice Conclave sessions|379YE Summer Solstice]]</tr>
<tr><td>Mira, Herald of [[Irra Harah]]</td><td>Kalini</td><td>[[379YE Summer Solstice Conclave sessions|379YE Summer Solstice]]</tr>
<tr><td>Stormcrow Vora, Spring Child</td><td>Iulian, Archmage of Spring</td><td></td></tr>

<tr><td>Uk'ta the Messenger, Herald of [[Lashonar]]</td><td>Pavel, Archmage of Night</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Ylitha-Rose, Spring Child</td><td>Iulian, Archmage of Spring</td><td></td></tr>
</table>

==Enmity==
An eternal (and associated heralds) under Declaration of Enmity suffers the following penalties:
* Eternals and heralds under enmity count as barbarians for [[Imperial_Law_Overview#Individuals_and_the_law|legal purposes]].
* Trading or dealing with an eternal under enmity is illegal and will be investigated as [[List_of_Criminal_Offences#Crimes_of_Position|treason]].
* Any ritual that deals directly with an eternal subject to the declaration of enmity (such as [[Ephisis' Scale]] for [[Ephisis]], [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]] for [[Kaela]] or [[Missive for Sadogua]] for [[Sadogua]] and so on) is automatically considered to be [[Declaration#Declaration of Interdiction|interdicted]]; magistrates may seek the assistance of the [[archmage|archmagi]] to clarify which rituals this effects, unless there is a separate [[Conclave session#Declaration of Interdiction|declaration of interdiction]] against specific rituals.

The declaration also has magical effects. Eternals find it much harder to enter the Hall of Worlds. Heralds cannot use the portal in the Hall of Worlds to travel to Anvil without ritual assistance from an Imperial citizen.

===Current Enmity===
<table>
<tr><th>Eternal</th><th>Declared By</th><th>Date</th><th>Prohibited Rituals</th></tr>

<tr><td>[[Wendigo]]</td><td>Beloslava Velkovitch.</td><td>306 YE Winter Solstice</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>[[Whisper Gallery]]</td><td>Gregore</td><td>[[379YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Conclave_Declarations|379YE Autumn Equinox]]</td><td>[[Whispering Shadow Courtiers]]</td></tr>
</tr>
</table>

[[Category:Conclave]]
[[Category:The Law]]

Realm

2016-07-02T20:41:49Z

Gereon: Adding more realm links, after a test.

==Overview==
The world of Empire is known to touch six other planes of existence that are separate from, but intimately connected to, the mortal realm. These Realms are innately connected to the practice of magic, as well as being home to magical entities called [[Eternals]].

Magicians have named four of the Realms after seasons, but these are symbolic rather than literal names. The Realm of Winter, for example, incorporates brutal desert, parched forests and bottomless oceans as well as frozen snowfields. The "seasonal realms" resonate more with the "seasons of life" than the literal wheel of the seasons. Spring is wild and unfettered as a child, Summer is full of the arrogance of youth, Autumn is a realm of maturity and Winter a realm echoing with the fear and wisdom of old age. By contrast Day and Night are realms of the spirit; one encompasses ideas of intellect and the higher mind, the other ideas of passion and the primal instincts.
===The Realm Glyphs===
A system of six sigils are commonly used in the Empire to represent the realms. These sigla were created and popularised in pre-Imperial times by a [[Dawn|Dawnish]] [[Earl#Enchanter|enchanter]], initially for use in [[Dawn_culture_and_customs#Heraldry|heraldry]]. They were later adopted by several prominent [[Weaver_cabal|weaver cabals]] for the creation of [[magic items|magic]] baners, tabards and cloaks and their use slowly spread, especially in [[Varushka]], [[the League]] and [[Highguard]]. Today they are regularly used in ritual magic as symbols of entire realms where individual [[Wintermark]] [[Rune Overview|runes]] would be too specific or too laden with additional meaning. Many [[Eternal|eternals]] recognise these glyphs, and honour their association.

<row-fluid>
<span4>
==Spring==
{{ThreeColIconImage|file=SpringRune.jpg|link=Spring magic}}
Sometimes called the Primal Forest, this is a Realm overflowing with life in infinite variety. A Realm where things begin and are renewed second to second, but where death comes swiftly. Here the green Eternals celebrate creation and destruction in all its untold beauty, and buzzing voices remind humankind that it has no place here in the primeval realm.
</span4>

<span4>
==Summer==
{{ThreeColIconImage|file=SummerRune.jpg|link=Summer magic}}
In the realm of might and majesty, everything exists in a timeless moment at its idealised prime. Great oaks tower over the fields of glory, the mountains scrape the skies, the blizzards howl more terrible than any mortal storm and the dark sea is deeper than any mortal ocean. The savage beasts of legend are hunted across the rolling plains by Eternals clad in the bright panoply of youth and immortality.
</span4>

<span4>
==Autumn==
{{ThreeColIconImage|file=AutumnRune.jpg|link=Autumn magic}}
In the Realm of intrigue and influence everything interweaves in a great shifting web of favour and debt. The horned lords and ladies compete in savage games of wealth and power. They welcome mortals to their councils but beware the bargains of Autumn for in the Labyrinth, nothing is simple.
</span4>
</row-fluid>

<row-fluid>
<span4>
==Winter==
{{ThreeColIconImage|file=WinterRUne.jpg|link=Winter magic}}
The Wasteland is hungry. It is a realm of creaking dread, of fear and famine without the memory of dusk or the hope of dawn. From the parching heat of the dusty desert halls to the frigid silence of snow-drowned forests wait the Eternals of Winter, the wise monsters who make no effort to conceal their cruel natures. It is a realm of wisdom, the cruel wisdom that comes with age and experience, the wisdom of hard choices and the certainty of death.
</span4>

<span4>
==Day==
{{ThreeColIconImage|file=DayRune.jpg|link=Day magic}}
A realm of spirit and of shining light. Where the sky and the ocean meet, in the heights and the depths, the Eternals of Day seek infinite understanding of the truths of creation. It is a realm that celebrates reason over impulse, thought over instinct, harmony over passion. It is the Realm of the higher mind, of the birth of revelation and the death of secrets.
</span4>

<span4>
==Night==
{{ThreeColIconImage|file=NightRune.jpg|link=Night magic}}
A realm of spirit and of eternal shadow. Where passion rules, thought gives way to instinct, and joy and terror are both a breath away. The coiling serpents and enigmatic wyrms of Night whisper of the joy of mysteries, and of the riddles whose beauty lies in the act of unravelling rather than the revelation of the secrets wrapped within.
</span4>
</row-fluid>

[[Category:Realms]]
[[Category:The World]]
[[Category:Magic]]

Realm

2016-07-02T20:40:56Z

Gereon: I think the images should actually link somewhere. X magic looks reasonable.

==Overview==
The world of Empire is known to touch six other planes of existence that are separate from, but intimately connected to, the mortal realm. These Realms are innately connected to the practice of magic, as well as being home to magical entities called [[Eternals]].

Magicians have named four of the Realms after seasons, but these are symbolic rather than literal names. The Realm of Winter, for example, incorporates brutal desert, parched forests and bottomless oceans as well as frozen snowfields. The "seasonal realms" resonate more with the "seasons of life" than the literal wheel of the seasons. Spring is wild and unfettered as a child, Summer is full of the arrogance of youth, Autumn is a realm of maturity and Winter a realm echoing with the fear and wisdom of old age. By contrast Day and Night are realms of the spirit; one encompasses ideas of intellect and the higher mind, the other ideas of passion and the primal instincts.
===The Realm Glyphs===
A system of six sigils are commonly used in the Empire to represent the realms. These sigla were created and popularised in pre-Imperial times by a [[Dawn|Dawnish]] [[Earl#Enchanter|enchanter]], initially for use in [[Dawn_culture_and_customs#Heraldry|heraldry]]. They were later adopted by several prominent [[Weaver_cabal|weaver cabals]] for the creation of [[magic items|magic]] baners, tabards and cloaks and their use slowly spread, especially in [[Varushka]], [[the League]] and [[Highguard]]. Today they are regularly used in ritual magic as symbols of entire realms where individual [[Wintermark]] [[Rune Overview|runes]] would be too specific or too laden with additional meaning. Many [[Eternal|eternals]] recognise these glyphs, and honour their association.

<row-fluid>
<span4>
==Spring==
{{ThreeColIconImage|file=SpringRune.jpg|link=Spring magic}}
Sometimes called the Primal Forest, this is a Realm overflowing with life in infinite variety. A Realm where things begin and are renewed second to second, but where death comes swiftly. Here the green Eternals celebrate creation and destruction in all its untold beauty, and buzzing voices remind humankind that it has no place here in the primeval realm.
</span4>

<span4>
==Summer==
{{ThreeColIconImage|file=SummerRune.jpg|link=Summer}}
In the realm of might and majesty, everything exists in a timeless moment at its idealised prime. Great oaks tower over the fields of glory, the mountains scrape the skies, the blizzards howl more terrible than any mortal storm and the dark sea is deeper than any mortal ocean. The savage beasts of legend are hunted across the rolling plains by Eternals clad in the bright panoply of youth and immortality.
</span4>

<span4>
==Autumn==
{{ThreeColIconImage|file=AutumnRune.jpg|link=Autumn}}
In the Realm of intrigue and influence everything interweaves in a great shifting web of favour and debt. The horned lords and ladies compete in savage games of wealth and power. They welcome mortals to their councils but beware the bargains of Autumn for in the Labyrinth, nothing is simple.
</span4>
</row-fluid>

<row-fluid>
<span4>
==Winter==
{{ThreeColIconImage|file=WinterRUne.jpg|link=Winter}}
The Wasteland is hungry. It is a realm of creaking dread, of fear and famine without the memory of dusk or the hope of dawn. From the parching heat of the dusty desert halls to the frigid silence of snow-drowned forests wait the Eternals of Winter, the wise monsters who make no effort to conceal their cruel natures. It is a realm of wisdom, the cruel wisdom that comes with age and experience, the wisdom of hard choices and the certainty of death.
</span4>

<span4>
==Day==
{{ThreeColIconImage|file=DayRune.jpg|link=Day}}
A realm of spirit and of shining light. Where the sky and the ocean meet, in the heights and the depths, the Eternals of Day seek infinite understanding of the truths of creation. It is a realm that celebrates reason over impulse, thought over instinct, harmony over passion. It is the Realm of the higher mind, of the birth of revelation and the death of secrets.
</span4>

<span4>
==Night==
{{ThreeColIconImage|file=NightRune.jpg|link=Night}}
A realm of spirit and of eternal shadow. Where passion rules, thought gives way to instinct, and joy and terror are both a breath away. The coiling serpents and enigmatic wyrms of Night whisper of the joy of mysteries, and of the riddles whose beauty lies in the act of unravelling rather than the revelation of the secrets wrapped within.
</span4>
</row-fluid>

[[Category:Realms]]
[[Category:The World]]
[[Category:Magic]]

Troubadour's Ring

2016-07-02T14:59:50Z

Gereon: Use Jewellery template. The link was unhelpful, which tipped me off.

==Description==
A Troubadour's Ring is a ring, usually worn by [[Dawn|Dawnish]] [[Troubadour|troubadours]], [[Wintermark military concerns#Banner-bearers|banner-bearers]], standard-bearers, bards, [[Wintermark culture and customs#Art and history|scops]], [[Varushka|Varushkan]] [[Stzena|stzena]], many priests and even [[The League|League]] [[The League culture and customs#Relationships|cicisbeos]]. It is a valuable item that allows a supporter or assistant to use their charisma and inner strength to keep their allies alive in the most desperate straits. While the common name is used throughout the Empire, the individual nations often refer to them by the name of an [[Archetypes|archetypal]] supporter from their own culture - thus there are ''Cicisbeo Signets'', ''Bannerbearer's Bands'' and ''Bard's Bands'' in various places.

A Troubadour's Ring is a grand gift to a member of a [[Groups#Banners|fighting company]] whose bravery and loyalty are seen as being inspirational. Some companies with a long history are lucky enough to own an artefact-quality version of the ring which is passed from one 'mascot' to another. Being chosen to carry one of these treasured relics is a mark of great honour. The nature of war means that these priceless rings often fall into the hands of enemies, unfortunately; recovering one of these rings and returning it to the company to which it belongs can easily create a lifelong debt, especially in places such as the [[The Marches|Marches]] and the [[The League|League]] where debts are not treated lightly.

==Rules==
{{Jewellery}}
* '''Effect:''' You may spend a [[Heroic skills#Hero points|hero point]] to use the [[Heroic skills#Stay with me|stay with me]] skill. Once per day you may use the stay with me skill without spending a hero point.
* '''Materials:''' Crafting a Troubadour's Ring requires five ingots of [[Materials#Green Iron|green iron]], four measures of [[Materials#Ambergelt|ambergelt]] and five measures of [[Materials#Dragonbone|dragonbone]]. It takes one month to make one of these items.



<ic>Dear Tomasina di Sarvos, Captain of the Company of the Black Banner,

Firstly, allow me to extend my warm congratulations on the birth of your granddaughter, a girl whom I am certain will be as full of the virtues of courage and pride as those who gave her birth. Keep her close and love her dearly, and she will not falter for want of good examples to guide her.

Secondly, please request from my messenger the package accompanying this letter now. I hope that you recognise it, my dear friend. I only wish that I could deliver it in person, but the terms of my contract keep me across the water for now, and it seemed too important to wait once I discovered its origins.

This fine ring fell into my possession on campaign along the Brass Coast, among a hoard of otherwise trivial jewellery being auctioned after its capture from foreign reavers. My lieutenant recognised it immediately as a Cicisbeo’s Signet, and clearly decorated with a banner of Sarvos, and yet though it lingered on the edges of our awareness, none among the crew could place it by sight. Call it a failing of vigilance, perhaps, but my banner-book was damaged by water some years ago, and parts of it remain utterly illegible. As you are aware, I am not presently on friendly terms with the Reckoner guilds, and I did not wish to entrust it to another, and so it lay unknown, an object of fierce curiosity, for these past two years.

Eventually, however, along came a torch-bearer of Urizen who wished to travel in foreign parts. He boarded the same Freeborn ship as us, and his own notes on the banners of the Companies of the League were quite extensive. It was then, some days into the voyage, that we recognised it in those notes as the old seal of the Company of the Black Banner, formerly the Black Swan Ascendant, which your grandfather re-named and valiantly rebuilt after its defeat at sea.

Imagine my delight at the discovery. I swear to you, that nervous old mountain-goat did not appreciate being shaken with quite such excitement as I felt at that moment. Immediately we made landfall I attempted to amend the terms of my contract to permit me to deliver the ring myself, but alas, you know the Freeborn: signed in a cambion’s blood, the contract was immutable. I do not blame them; when I look back, the gesture seems a tad off-colour, but such was my delight.

Instead, you have it from the hand of my most trusted lieutenant Drago Durante di Sarvos, along with this letter, sealed with two kisses of joyful affection, one for each cheek. I hope that when we next meet, I will have the honour of seeing it resplendent on the hand of your cicisbeo.

I must to the campaign trail now, but know that a part of my thoughts go with this ring to you.

With warmest regards, I remain,

Yours,

Fabrizio di Sarvos
Captain, Company of the Bald Eagle</ic>

Changeling

2016-06-28T23:11:50Z

Gereon: /* Changeling Images */

{{CaptionedImage|file=DoctorHolfried.jpg|title=Doctor Beatrix Amalia von Holfried zu Holberg primarily expresses her lineage through her horns, her pointed ears, and her forthright character.|caption=Changelings are touched by the Summer realm.|align=right|width=250}}
==Overview==
Changelings are touched by the realm of [[Summer]], a realm of beauty and strength whose [[Eternals]] are potent symbols of might and majesty. They are proud, confident, individualistic people who ''know'' they are the best of the best and were born to excel at anything they turn their hands to.

Changelings prefer roles where they can take the lead or stand out. They are especially appropriate to military and political leaders, but they also make great champions and representatives for groups. Bands of changelings work well, they can regard themselves as amongst their peers and be confident of the group's abilities as a result.

The changeling lineage is intended to appeal to players who want to create proud characters who enjoy being the centre of attention. They are particularly suited to heroes: characters who lead from the front, whether bold champions who bestride the battlefield or charismatic orators taking the floor of the senate.

Changelings obviously draw on images of elves from various settings, most especially Tolkien, with characters such as Glorfindel and Fëanor. However you can also draw inspiration from deities like Thor and Marduk as well as Greek heroes such as immortal-blooded Hercules, the heroes of the Illiad and Odyssey: Hector, Paris and Achilles as well as the proud leaders Hippolyta of the Amazons, and Jason of the Argonauts. Historical figures like Alexander the Great, Henry VIII and Elizabeth I are good inspirations for individual changelings, while the Three Musketeers and Arthur's Knights of the Round Table are an excellent inspiration for a group of changelings.

Villains can also make great role models for changelings, comic book villains like Dr Doom or the Kurgen from Highlander. Any villain who likes to dominate the situation and defeat their foes by besting them rather than outwitting them possesses some of the traits of a changeling.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Changeling8.png|align=right|width=200}}
==What changelings are not==
*'''Fairies.''' Changelings include elements of traditional fae, but focus on the Tuatha-de-dannan, the lords and ladies of the fae rather than pixies, fauns, satyrs or goblins.
*'''Beastkin.''' Changelings may have the antlers of a stag or a leonine mane but these characteristics add to their human features to enhance their majesty and prowess. They are not animals; they are neither animalistic or bestial.

==Sobriquets==
Elf, Fae, Feyling, Knife-ears, the Proud.

==Iconic trappings==
Changelings usually have ears that come to a marked point and are noticeably different to human ears, with their rounded tips. They are not the long ears of the Night Elf from Warcraft or similar.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Joanna.jpg|align=right|width=250}}
==Additional Trappings==
*'''Fey eyes.''' A changeling may have exotically coloured eyes. Cosmetic contact lenses can be used to achieve this. The pupil should be the normal shape but the iris can be purple, vibrant blue or bright green.
*'''Spiral Markings.''' Changelings may develop marks on their body that resemble spirals or even intricate knotwork. These might seem to be tattoos, or birthmarks, or represent areas of raised or lowered skin.
*'''Primal animal elements.''' Changelings may have an animal element of a lion's mane, stag's antlers or a feathered brow with eagle or swan feathers. These elements suggest power and potence; they make the character look regal by turning their brow into a crown. Changelings are not cat people, ratkin or beastfolk.
**'''Stag's antlers.''' Changelings of any gender can have stag's antlers. Antlers are specifically branching horns, rather than the goat, bull or ram horns which are the mark of a Cambion.
**'''Leonine mane.''' Hair that is swept back to give the impression of a leonine mane is appropriate for any gender of changeling. A hairpiece can also be used to achieve this effect. The goal is to appear as the king of the beasts, not a cat.
**'''Feathered Brow.''' Eagle or swan feathers on the brow line. A few feathers attached to the brow or a subtle headpiece can be used to achieve this effect. The goal is to appear as the king of the birds, not a pigeon.
*'''Haughty demeanour.''' Changelings might express their prowess and confidence by keeping their back straight and their heads up, always speaking in a clear audible tone. Avoiding contractions while speaking - saying do not instead don't or can not instead of can't help to impress the authority and importance of the changeling.
<row-fluid>
<span3>{{CaptionedImage|file=Changling - Brow Feathers - Jo Perridge.jpg|width=175}}</span3>
<span3>{{CaptionedImage|file=Changling - Feathers - Jo Perridge.jpg|width=175}}</span3>
<span3>{{CaptionedImage|file=Changling - Tattoo - Jo Perridge.jpg|width=175}}</span3>
<span3>{{CaptionedImage|file=Changling - Stag - Jo Perridge.jpg|width=175}}</span3>
</row-fluid>

==Roleplaying Effects==
Changeling blood influences the character of the one who possesses it. Not every changeling expresses these effects to the same degree, but characters who demonstrate these roleplaying trappings possess stronger lineage than those who do not.
*'''Changelings are confident.''' They find it difficult to entertain the idea that they could fail at tasks they set their mind to. They often assume that they are the best person for a job and that their opinions are relevant. They seek out positions of authority and responsibility within groups. They are driven to achieve a degree of personal excellence that supports their view of themselves as superior, especially as a response to any apparent failure.
*'''Changelings are noble and bold.''' Around people who treat them with respect, around their friends and loved ones, they are solicitous, agreeable and gregarious. They feel a drive to take responsibility for others, to take charge, and get things done. They are not necessarily altruistic, but they often enjoy helping people if only to demonstrate that they can.
*'''Changelings are vain individuals.''' They like to stand out, and look different and love approval, adulation, and being the centre of attention. They hate being overlooked or dismissed as one of the crowd and take pains to ensure their appearance is striking and dramatic. They use their appearance to cement their image of themselves, and encourage others to see them as powerful and strong. They seek out the best clothing, the best armour and the best weapons.
*'''Changelings are wrathful.''' When thwarted, belittled, crossed or wronged they may fly into a devastating rage. These rages are like summer storms – intense but short lived. More than one changeling has lost control of their emotions and done something that changes their life forever in the grip of a sudden rage. Any changeling who is exposed to a roleplaying effect that creates fear or doubt can respond by becoming angry instead.
* '''Changelings may degenerate into madness.''' Some changelings become increasingly arrogant to the point of egomania. They treat others as if they are lesser creatures. They believe themselves to be stronger or wiser than they actually are, and brush aside anything that disagrees with that. They expect others to give them respect or obey them without earning that respect or obedience. They can become so blunt that they offend anyone they speak to, assuming that others will listen to what they say automatically just because of who and what they are.
==The blood==
{{CaptionedImage|file=Aife.jpg|title=Aife is a navarr Vate fascinated by her otherworldly ancestry.|caption=Strength and confidence are in the blood.|align=right|width=225}}

Although changelings are still mortals, they tend to be healthy and live a little longer than their neighbours (assuming they avoid accidents or malice). Changelings tend to remain vital and spry and keep their wits until the end of their life.

Changeling blood tends to exaggerate the traits of the individual. A delicate noble flower will be more delicate, more lithe, more subtle. The coarse labourer or warrior will be more solid. more muscular, more physical. The lineage can lie dormant in the blood for a generation or two, then rear its head without warning. Some human families have a history of producing changeling children, and if both parents are from such families, the likelihood increases.

Some changelings talk of spending time in the Realm of Summer as prisoners, guests or even consorts of Eternals. Over the course of the timeless days spent in the Realm, humans may be slowly transformed into changelings. There is a suspicion in some quarters that the food and drink of the Eternals of Summer is responsible for this change, though it is likely due to the nature of the realm itself rather than any specific element of it.

The Eternals of Summer expect their lineaged relatives to be strong and confident. A changeling will have to act the part to be taken seriously by them but they’ll treat them as an equal if they do so.

<row-fluid>
<span3>{{CaptionedImage|file=Changling - Little Horns - Jo Perridge.jpg|width=187}}</span3>
<span3>{{CaptionedImage|file=Changling - Jo Perridge.jpg|width=187}}</span3>
<span3>{{CaptionedImage|file=Changling - Ears - Jo Perridge.jpg|width=187}}</span3>
<span3>{{CaptionedImage|file=WintermarkChangeling.jpg|width=187}}</span3>
</row-fluid>

==Lines of the Changelings==
*Some noble houses of [[Dawn_Lineage_and_Species_Attitudes|Dawn]] only accept changelings into their ranks. They epitomize the Summer lineage beautifully; confidence bordering on arrogance, and a boldness bordering on brash.

*The unveiled of [[Highguard_Lineage_and_Species_Attitudes|Highguard]] include a fair few changelings, who cut off their ear tips, horns and manes to publicly demonstrate that they have renounced their heritage.

*Changeling wardens have a reputation as reckless monster hunters in [[Varushka_Lineage_and_Species_Attitudes|Varushka]] as part of the Company of the White Stag.

*Changeling blood is a sign of good luck in [[Wintermark_Lineage_and_Species_Attitudes|Wintermark]] where "''sharp ears''" is considered a compliment.
==Changeling Images==
<row-fluid><span3>{{CaptionedImage|file=TestOfCitizenship.jpg|title=This changeling is young, but already displays the pride and confidence that are a mark of her heritage.|width=187}}</span3>
<span3>{{CaptionedImage|file=HeavyChangeling.jpg|title=Changeling are noble and bold.|width=187}}</span3>
<span3>{{CaptionedImage|file=Varushka Changeling Warden.jpg|align=right|width=187}}</span3></row-fluid>
[[Category:Lineages]]

Embassy

2016-04-27T00:41:02Z

Gereon: /* Existing Embassies */

==Overview==
Creating an embassy allows the Empire to open diplomatic relations with a [[Foreign_nations|foreign]] nation or empire. Embassies formalize the communications between the Empire and other powers, allowing respective governments to send official communications. Operating an embassy requires the an Imperial citizen is appointed to act as ambassador, and duly empowered to [[authority|speak on behalf of the Empire]].

The Empire can open embassies with distant foreigners such as [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavea]], [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarm]] and the [[Commonwealth|Commonwealth]]. These foreign powers are empires in their own right and have a similar level of might and influence to the Empire, but are far away over the seas and have many concerns of their own. The Empire can also open embassies to nearby foreigners such as the [[Axos]], the [[Faraden]] and the [[Iron Confederacy]]. These nations possess power equivalent to one or two Imperial nations, but they are much closer to the Empire and their concerns are much more likely to be aligned with Imperial concerns.

==Senate Commissions==
The [[Imperial Senate]] may pass a motion for the construction of an embassy. The senate must select a [[territory]], and a region within that territory, where the embassy will be constructed.

Each embassy is tied to a single foreign nation. When the construction is complete a new Imperial title of ambassador is automatically created. An ambassador automatically has [[authority]] for all negotiations with the foreign nation. Appointment follows the normal constitutional process for an Imperial position [[Appointments_by_the_Senate#Imperial_Position|appointed by the Senate]] and re-appointed each year after that.

The Senate does not need the approval of the foreign nation to begin construction, but unless a foreign nation chooses to recognize an embassy and to reciprocate then it will not provide any benefits of any kind.

==Benefits==
===Ambassador to a Foreign Nation===
An embassy opens an official channel for diplomacy with a selected foreign nation or power. This allows the Empire to initiate diplomatic contact with the other nation to make requests of them.

Members of foreign nations initiate contact with the Empire without an embassy, but this will be either be to allow the nation to make requests of the Empire or it will be private individuals rather than official representatives. For example, a group of [[Faraden]] mercenaries may look for work during a summit at [[Casinea#Anvil|Anvil]], but without an embassy it is unlikely that the Lady of the Five Winds would send diplomats to discuss a major trade treaty.

The ambassador is likely to receive regular communication from their counterparts in the foreign nation, often via the use of the [[Call Winged Messenger]] [[rituals|ritual]]. There is an expectation that the ambassador will reply to these communications, again most likely by the use of Call Winged Messenger.

===Authority===
The ambassador has [[authority]] to represent the Empire to the appropriate nation. The civil service provide support to allow the ambassador to speak on behalf of the Empire when dealing with foreign dignitaries from the relevant nation. If the visitors are present at the summit and have requested an official audience, then the Senate room is made available for use by the Ambassador at least once. The ambassador is expected to receive guests from the Imperial throne and to decide on who will be present in the chamber during this audience.

===Favour===
Merchants of both sides who engaged in trade between the Empire and the foreign nation have many reasons to want to curry favour with an ambassador. Commonly they will take a portion of the items they buy and sell and make them available to the ambassador at favourable prices.

This favour is reflected by the automatic creation of a ''small'' [[ministry]] as part of an embassy. This allows the ambassador to directly purchase raw materials from traders and merchants of the associated nation. For example, the [[Asavean Archipelago|Asavean]] embassy allows the ambassador to purchase [[Materials#Cerulean Mazzarine|Cerulean Mazzarine]], [[Materials#Orichalcum|Orichalcum]], [[Materials#Iridescent Gloaming|Iridescent Gloaming]], and [[Materials#Tempest Jade|Tempest Jade]] directly for Imperial [[currency]]. The materials provided may fluctuate, but will be tied to those which the foreign nation has regular surpluses of.


===Intrigue===
Foreign nations are like characters in their own right, and seek to draw the Empire into their intrigues. The Asavean Plenum might seek to enlist the Empire in its conflict with the Sumaah Republic, for example. One member of the Plenum might seek to engage Imperial support in a conspiracy against another Plenum family. A high ranking noble might want to employ foreign mercenaries to help put down a slave revolt, or to locate a prized artefact. All of these create narrative opportunities, decisions and conflicts for the Empire and particularly for the ambassador.

===Costs===
* Materials: 25 wains of Weirwood and 25 wains of White Granite
* Labour: 12 Thrones
* Time: 1 season
* Upkeep: 5 Thrones

==Limitations==
Operating an embassy is completely dependent on the agreement and cooperation of the foreign nation it is tied to. An embassy with a hostile foreign nation that is not prepared to accept Imperial diplomacy provides no benefits of any kind.

Even if an agreement is made and an embassy is constructed, it remains contingent on the continuing goodwill of the foreign nation that it houses. If relations sour then they may choose to end contact with the Empire at any time.

An embassy is built to the designs required for a specific foreign nation - it is not possible to reallocate a building to a new nation and no nation would accept the insult of being offered a used embassy built for another nation.

The ambassador is responsible for representing the Empire in its relations with the foreign nation. They are given authority by the Senate to speak on behalf of the Empire and will be treated accordingly. Although the ambassador cannot legally [[Powers_of_the_Imperial_Senate#Declaration_of_War|declare war]], their words and actions can easily create diplomatic incidents which cause the foreign nation to declare war on the Empire.

==Existing Embassies==
The following embassies have been constructed in recent years:

* An [[Ambassador to Asavea|Asavean Embassy]] in [[Sarvos#Asavean_Embassy|Sarvos]].
* A [[Ambassador to Jarm|Jarmish Embassy]] in [[Redoubt#Cargo|Cargo]], in [[Redoubt]].
* An [[Ambassador to the Iron Confederacy|Iron Confederacy Embassy]] in [[Sarvos]].
* A [[Ambassador to Faraden|Faraden Embassy]] in [[Segura#Anduz|Anduz]], in [[Segura]].
* A [[Ambassador to the Sumaah Republic|Sumaah Embassy]] in an unknown location; work has not yet begun on this structure.
* A [[Ambassador to the Commonwealth|Commonwealth Embassy]] in an unknown location; work has not yet begun on this structure.

[[Category:Senate]]
[[Category:Imperial Titles]]

File:Henry Talbot in Plate.jpg

2016-04-26T08:07:47Z

Gereon: Blanked the page

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-26T08:05:05Z

Gereon: /* Stewards */

{{CaptionedImage|file=Wassail with Scarecrow.jpg|caption=[[Wassail]], the harvest festival|width=300|align=left}}
==Overview==
[[The Marches]] draws strongly on English history from the 12th century through to the War of the Roses for costume, weaponry and armour.

The costume of the Marches has a 'solidity' to it, a worn, lived-in look that contrasts with its neighbour [[Dawn]]'s high romance, gleaming plate and vivid hues. The Marches is Kenneth Brannagh’s Henry V rather than Laurence Olivier’s.

<ic style="clear:both">
We strive to treat the mud with care
with lots of muck and tilling. 
And it repays us thousandfold:
That’s why its so fulfilling. 
And when the day is over,
we’ll drink a glass or more, 
to Marcher mud - its in our blood, ingrained in every pore. 
We’re down to earth,
down and dirty:
Digging for victory.
</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Shanks_Awning.jpg|width=300|align=left}}
==Breakdown==
===Feel===
Gritty, solid, practical, traditional, mud, blood, green fields, rural, iron.
===Influences===
Wars of the Roses England, Rangers of Ithilien (Beaters), Cadfael (Monks and Landskeepers).
{{CaptionedImage|file=Marches_colour_scheme.png|width=400|height=100|align=right}}
===Materials===
Wool, calico, linen, leather.
===Colours===
Plain flat colours, mostly the soft colours of natural dyes or unbleached
cloth. The palette is autumnal suggesting natural dull blues, greys, browns/
rusts, mustards and greens, dull reds etc. especially at the lower end of
the social scale. Wealthier Marchers may use deeper, brighter shades.
===Icons===
* '''Livery''' Members of a household generally wear their livery in some way – as a [[livery coat]], [[sash]] or [[pewter badge]].
* '''Poppets''' and other symbols of the land play an important role in [[the Marches hearth magic]]. Many Marchers, all children and every home in the Marches have at least one poppet.
* '''Apples''' The symbol the apple, and fruit and seed in general, is a common representation of the soul and the cycle of rebirth.
* '''Crow''' and '''Rat''' are both images of ill-omen and bad luck.
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesHats.jpg|width=300|align=right}}

==Clothing==
Marchers favour plain clothes, [[tunic]]s, simple [[hood]]s, hose and [[shirt]]s. Wealthier characters might wear finer [[robe]]s, cotehardies or a simple doublet, but even then plain wool or heavy linen will be more appropriate than fancy patterns or embroidery.
Medieval re-enactments are a great source of inspiration for the look and feel of the Marches territories - although unlike history, its worth noting that Marches society is gender neutral.

Marcher leg wear is practical and slim fitting. Close fitting trousers are practical and easy to come by or make.
[[Hose]], either joined or split, are worn with [[braies]] and a long shirt. An extremely simple untailored cut for shirts fits the Marches very well: Full in the body and sleeve, possibly gathered at neck and wrist.

[[Doublet]]s are popular in the Marches, a snug-fitting buttoned jacket that is shaped and fitted to the body. It can be worn over the shirt or under another layer of clothing. They tend to be short and simple – fancy slash work doesn't really fit the Marchers practical approach.

A woollen or heavy linen overdress
such as a [[kirtle]] or [[cotehardie]] over a shirt or [[shift]]
is be a good alternative to shirts and hose.
The look is long, lean and smooth and laced to fit.
Back lacing shows higher status and gives a better line. Side lacing is more common.
It would be rare to see a gathered skirt (common to Tudor kirtles) in the Marches.

Headwear is frequently worn, from a simple cap or [[coif]], to [[hat]]s or something like a [[hood]] with liripipe or a [[chaperon]].

Marchers have no pockets, so a pouch is invaluable – [[bollock pouch|bollock]] or [[kidney pouch]]es
or leather bags are perfect. Belts are often very long, wrapped round,
looped at the front and left to dangle.

The [[#Monks and Friars|typical clothing]] of both male and femals [[The_Marches_religious_beliefs|monks and friars]] consists of a [[#Monks and Friars|traditional plain monk's habit]].

{{CaptionedImage|file=Marcher Camp.jpg|title=The hearth is the core of a Marcher home, even in Anvil.|width=250|height=250|align=right}}
==Camps==

Gates and doors are traditionally decorated with woven bundles of grain on either side, the respect shown to the land prevents evil doers from entering. The hearth is where food taken from the land is prepared. It should always be kept clean and ideally be decorated with fresh cut flowers to prevent food cooked there causing a poison of the blood. Poor March Folk or those on campaign will make do with bundles of grass or common meadow flowers.
 
{{CaptionedImage|file=Marchers_through_Sentinel_Gate.jpg|title=The Marches march out through the sentinel gate|width=800|height=400|align=left}}
==Weaponry==
The classic Marcher fighting unit is a block of assorted polearms recruited from the yeomanry. Prosperous marchers often wear plate and wield great swords, poleaxes or hammers, shattering gaps open for the billfolk to exploit.

Bows, in particular longbows, are also a common sight among the Marchers units on the battlefield.
===Armour===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Rosamund_Mage_Armour.jpg|title=Mage armour protects the battle mage|width=200|height=200|align=right}}
Padded [[gambeson]]s or [[leather jack]]s are common for the poor, with a [[harness of plate]] for richer individuals. [[Brigandine]]s are an intermediate option. Households often wear matching [[livery coat]]s, although simple [[sash]]es or badges are also used to denote affiliation. [[Jack chain]]s over a gambeson are ideal for a Marcher yeoman.

[[Weapons & Armour#Mage Armour|Mage armour]] is often from similar materials - fabric, leather and possibly pieces of chain mail - in both natural and household colours, but is more likely to be adorned and decorated with elements of no immediately obvious use.
===Weapons===
Bows are common. In hand-to-hand combat Marchers favour bills and other pole-arms. Two handed swords are common for richer characters in heavier armour, as well as warhammers, maces or poleaxes. Any historical weapons from the Hundred Years War and the War of the Roses are typical: poleaxes, bills and other polearms are iconic; warhammers, bollock daggers, axes, falchions, mauls, and improvised weapons based on farm equipment are all carried by some.
====Shields====
Large shields are much less common than in other nations; shield-walls are seen as a tactic best left behind in Dawn. Marchers who have a good reason not to use a pole-arm or a great sword, such as martial Landskeepers fearing arrows, or skirmish groups protecting the flanks will often use a small buckler to go alongside their weapon of choice.
 
==Marcher household==
Any Marcher who owns farmland is a member of a [[Marcher_Household|household]], albeit perhaps a household of one, and any Marcher Household can declare a '''livery'''. Members of the household tend to wear the livery colours in some way. Stewards of a household that allies to a more powerful household usually retain their own livery, or combine it with the new households’ colours in some way. Households often wear matching [[livery coat|livery jackets]], although simple [[sash]]es or [[badge]]s are also effective ways of showing affiliation. Many households own a banner showing their livery.

{{CaptionedImage|file=Kings Stoke Fighters.jpg|width=600|Marcher Household arrayed for battle.|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Balston Fighting.jpg|width=600|House Balston|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarcherFamily.jpg|width=600|In livery from a young age|height=200|align=left}}
 
==Yeomen==
Poor [[Yeoman of the Marches|Yeomen]] may wear just a plain coloured jack or padded gambeson as their only armour.
Wealthier Yeomen usually have livery coats in their Household colours and mail or plate over the
top if they have it.
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen1.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen2.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen3.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Erwillian Mann.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=CullachMarching.jpg|width=500|height=250}}

==Stewards==
The head of a household, a [[steward]], may wear richer colours, but most likely in home grown wool not rarer silk. Wealthy Marchers are often seen in full harness of plate in battle.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Richard Talbot in Plate.jpg|title=A proud sreward in full plate|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards2.jpg|title=Film: Ironclad|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards3.jpg|title=Film: Snow White and the Huntsman|width=187|height=250}}

==Beaters==
[[The_Marches_military_concerns#Beaters|Beaters]] are skilled trackers and gamekeepers. They watch the borders of the Marches. They are inspired by the classic British archers of the period mixed with the Rangers of Ithilien from Lord of the Rings.
Beaters usually wear lighter armour, either just a padded or leather jack or else a leather tunic like the ones worn by the Rangers in Lord of the Rings.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Beater Andrew Daybell.jpg|caption=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|title=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|width=350|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Morgan Archer.jpg|title=Morgan Archer, House Talbot. Beater, hunter and game keeper.|caption=Morgan Archer (Judith Ressler)|width=220|height=200}}
== Aldermen and Townsfolk==
Many [[The Marches economic interests|aldermen]] take great pride in their ceremonial chains of office, sometimes referred to as "Chains of Prosperity". Some go so far as to commission them as magical items, such as an [[Alderman's Edge]].
{{CaptionedImage|file=Friar Alan.jpg|width=187|height=250|align=right}}
==Monks and Friars==
Both male and female [[The Marches religious beliefs|monks and friars]] wear traditional plain [[monk's habit]] either
in dark colours, or white with a dark [[scapular]].
A simple brown [[cassock]] works well but it might also be seen in black or
grey. A more complex arrangement with dark scapular over white undergarments is also a popular choice.

A [[chasuble]] or [[cowl]] is often worn over the habit, in particular during the cold seasons.
 
==Landskeepers==
Some [[The Marches magical traditions#Landskeepers|landskeepers]] wear [[robe]]s, similar to the monk, but a [[jerkin]], shirt and hose, with rolled-up sleeves is just as good an alternative. A landskeeper is well used to hard work in the fields and their look reflects that.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Landkeeper.jpg|width=402|height=200}}

==Children's costumes==
[[The Marches children|Children in the Marches]] can be dressed in scaled down versions of their parent's clothes. For toddlers and babies, traditional [[smock]]s, or simple t-[[tunic]]s and [[drawstring trousers]] are simple and easy to pull-on garments, that can be made in linen or cotton for easy washing! These types of clothes also have plenty of flexibility in terms of size, meaning you'll get more than one year's use out of them. Small [[coif]]s are great for keeping the sun off a baby's head and simple [[Hat#Straw Hat|straw hats]] can also be used to stop children burning. Older children can either have their own costumes, or be given adult clothes which are then rolled up and belted to fit - the practical Marchers are unlikely to waste any clothing and hand me downs are a cheap (in and out of character!) way to clothe children.

General tips for costume for children:
* Robes that stop at knee - mid-calf will be less of a trip hazard
* Headgear that can be very simply retied is great
* Avoiding things that can pull around the neck is wise (strings on cloaks/hats on cords/ tabards that don't secure under the arms
* Wider neck holes, sleeves and armholes will help with getting costume on and off, and leave room for growth

*[http://www.mathildegirlgenius.com/Documentation/KASF2006/InfantOutfit.pdf Information on clothes and swaddling for babies]
*[http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mae1215.html Patterns for Medieval children's clothes]
*[http://www.fabric-dreams.co.uk/Children/Burda-Schnitt-Muster-historisches-Kleid-Gr-98-128::8480.html Childrens' dresses]
*[http://www.fabric-dreams.co.uk/Carneval-Costumes/Burda-Schnitt-Muster-Karnevalskostuem-Musketier-104-140::8481.html Childrens' shirt, tunic and hood]
*[http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m5499-products-8715.php?page_id=915 'Mother and Daughter' dresses]
*[http://www.revivalclothing.com/medievalchildrensclothing.aspx Revival Clothing's Premade items for children]
*[http://www.gambeson.pl/medieval-on-line-shop/medieval-clothing-for-kids.html Gambeson's Premade items for children]
{{CaptionedImage|file=CM-130726-0034.jpg|width=187|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MG0690.jpg|width=400|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesChild4.jpg|width=187|height=200|caption=Costume by [http://www.cloakedanddaggered.com/menu/childrenswear/ Cloak'd and Dagger'd]}}

==10 Quick Costuming Tips==
* Charity shop fabric rails are a great source of wool blankets that can be made into staples of Marcher costume.
* With the popularity of medieval re-enactment, its very easy to buy off the peg [[hose]], [[doublet]]s, [[cotehardie]] and other key pieces. 12th–15th century kit is preferable to Tudor kit when choosing on-line or at kit fairs.
* Instead of actual [[hose]], any reasonably close fitting trousers in earthy or dark colours will look good for practical Marches characters.
* Households and families are important in the Marches - displaying the house livery can be done cheaply through simple [[sash]]es or [[badge]]s or if you fancy something a bit clearer, follow the guides for [[livery coat]]s.
* There are a range of options for practical [[Shoes|footwear]] - from bespoke re-enactment shoes to simple desert boots. Any soft leather or suede with simple ties, laces or side buckles will look good.
* There is no need to worried about all that itchy wool and linen: [[Shirt]]s and [[shift]]s are both are simple, loose and easily available in cotton and make a good part of the Marchers look. And whilst re-enactment markets are very useful for Marcher supplies, we're not looking for historical accuracy here – There's no expectation for you to be in itchy underwear!
* For those playing a rich Marcher, it could be easy to make choices that make the costume seem very similar to neighbouring Dawn. By sticking to plain fabrics (wool, maybe velvet, but not silks or brocades) and choosing rich autumnal colours rather than bright summery ones confusion can be avoided.
* Marcher beaters who are likely to wear [[light leather armour]] can avoid being confused with Steinr and Navarr by staying away from furs and going for classic Marcher accessories. [[Bollock pouch]]es are one example that are really simple to make and easily available to buy.
* Want to indicate low status? Try adding an [[apron]] or [[leather trousers]] or swap a doublet for a sleeveless [[jerkin]].
* Want to show off high status? Try doing so very discreetly, with a rich lining or carefully chosen buttons rather than ostentatious trims and decoration.

==Things you're unlikely to see==
* Don't expect 'bling' in the Marches, even the wealthy are likely to be subtle - with wealth displayed in linings and button detail, not slashed sleeves, full gathered fabrics, or rich embroidery or brocade.
* You won't find anyone worrying about hand stitching, whether that coat is too long for 1389 or what your underwear is made of. The Marches is a historically inspired culture, not a historically accurate one.
* There are no modesty guidelines in the Marches and gender roles don't follow the historical pattern - long skirts and laced dresses are a choice made by some not an expectation of all.

=Costume Sources=
As the Marches draw on inspiration from Earth history, there are both vendors of appropriate items of costume and documents dealing with the costume styles easily available for Marcher players looking for more details.

===Historical Women's Wear Reference Material===
As with military clothes, dresses can reflect household livery. 'Parti-coloured' (or split coloured) dresses look very effective.
[http://www.laracorsets.com/15th_Cen_Womens_clothing.htm Lara Corset's] website gives an excellent overview of all aspects of women's wardrobes in the late 1400s,

[http://matildalazouche.livejournal.com/ Matilda la Zouche's] wardrobe follows the reconstruction of several historically accurate outfits for a broad medieval period.

Some general pattern books are available which cover all types of women's wear:
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=240 Medieval Women's dress]
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=227 High medieval women's dress]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Medieval-Tailors-Assistant-1200-1500/dp/0896762394/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1341860986&sr=8-2 The Medieval Tailor’s Assistant]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/Make-Your-Own-Medieval-Clothing/dp/393892215X/ref=pd_sim_sbs_b_1 Make Your Own Medieval Clothing for women].
* [http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mag1314.html Nehelenia Patterns - Multi part pattern for men and women]

===Historical Men's Wear Reference Material===
{{CaptionedImage|file=ttunic.jpg|width=300|align=right|caption=T-tunic}}
Some general pattern books are available which cover all types of men's wear:
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=234 High Medieval men's dress]
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=229 Medieval men's dress]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Medieval-Tailors-Assistant-1200-1500/dp/0896762394/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1341860986&sr=8-2 The Medieval Tailor’s Assistant]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/Make-Your-Own-Medieval-Clothing/dp/3938922141/ref=pd_sim_sbs_b_2 Make Your Own Medieval Clothing for Men]
* [http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mag1314.html Nehelenia Patterns - Multi part pattern for men and women]

===Reenactment Sources===
[http://images.google.com/images?q=medieval+reenactment Medieval re-enactment], [http://images.google.com/images?q=wars+of+the+roses+reenactment Wars of the roses] and [http://images.google.com/images?q=13th+century+reenactment 13th], [http://images.google.com/images?q=14th+century+reenactment 14th] or [http://images.google.com/images?q=15th+century+reenactment 15th] Century re-enactment will all provide helpful inspiration.

===Guides to Livery===
*[http://www.historiclife.com/pdf/KASF2008/15thCenturyLivery.pdf 15th Century Livery]
*[http://www.bucks-retinue.org.uk/content/view/177/243/ Livery coats]
*[http://www.vexillia.ltd.uk/common/shop_books.html#5 Standards, Badges & Livery Colours of the Wars of the Roses], Pat McGill & Jonathan Jones, Freezywater Publications
*[http://www.vexillia.ltd.uk/common/shop_books.html#5 Heraldic Banners of the Wars of the Roses] (3 vols), Pat McGill & Thomas Coveney, Frezywater Publications.
*[http://www.medievalartandwoodcraft.com Medieval Art and Woodcraft] make livery badges, banners and flags, signage, medical charts etc. to order

===Books===
* The Medieval Soldier: 15th Century Campaign Life Recreated in Colour Photographs, Gerry Embleton & John Howe,
* English Medieval Knight 1400-1500, Christopher Gravett, Osprey Publishing
* The Great Warbow, Matthew Strickland & Robert Hardy, Sutton Publishing – probably the best accessible book you can get on the subject.
* Arms and Armour of the Medieval Knight, David Edge & John Miles Paddock, Saturn Books

===Costume sellers===
*[https://www.facebook.com/themidgardseamstress The Midgard Seamstress] Custom made UK LARP and Re-enactment costumes
*[http://armstreet.com/ Arm Street] Medieval and Fantasy clothing from Russia (English language website)
*[http://www.cloakedanddaggered.com Cloak’d and Dagger’d]
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/customcostumecompany/ Custom Costume Company] Bespoke designs for re-enactors and roleplayers
*[http://historicenterprises.com Historic Enterprises]American based costume company. Trades at TORM
*[http://medievaldresscompany.com/index.htm Medieval Dress Company] Clothing and leatherwork
*[http://www.matuls.pl/index.php?IDP=1&Lng=en Matuls] Clothing, armour tents and camp accessories from Poland (English language website)
*[http://www.revivalclothing.com/ Revival Clothing]
*[http://www.sallygreen.co.uk Sally Green]
*[http://www.sew-mill.com Sew-mill]

===Armourers===
*https://www.facebook.com/ArmourServices
*https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Medieval-Rats/147041485362649
*http://www.armabohemia.cz/Novestr/homeA.htm
*http://www.armorymarek.com/
*http://www.bestarmour.com/
*http://www.capapie.co.uk/
*http://www.dtok.fsnet.co.uk/
*http://www.lancasters-armourie.co.uk/
*http://www.stgeorgearmouryshop.co.uk/index2.html
*http://www.whiteroseapparel.com/
*http://www.whiterosearmoury.com/
*[http://www.darkbladeuk.co.uk/EMPIRE-LARP/Marches/c-1-114-121/ Darkblade] studded leather armour
* [https://www.facebook.com/TotallyLeathered Totally Leathered] [[Totally Leathered]] provides custom tooled leatherwork & bespoke armour.
* [[Idiom Productions]] Costume and Props Workshop creates custom hand-tooled leather armour, clothing and LRP weapons
* [[Evenlode Studios]] - High quality leather armour, costume and props handmade

===Leather items including shoes===
*[http://www.philfraser.com/index.htm Phil Fraser]
*[http://www.re-enactment-shoes.co.uk/ Re-enactment shoes ]
*[http://www.np-historicalshoes.com/home.php?lang=en Historical Shoes]
*[http://www.historische-schuhe.de/epages/61580448.sf/en_GB/?ViewObjectID=102641CP-Schule Historic Shoes] German company (English language website)
*[http://ravenswoodleather.com/index.php?p=home Ravenswood Leather Items] America site. Non-historical leather items.

===Fur and traditional materials===
*[http://www.houseofdeclifford.co.uk/ House of de Clifford] Ethically sourced furs of all kinds
*[http://www.candles-for-all-ages.com/ Candles for All Ages] Tallow and Beeswax Candles
*Herts Fabrics
*Bernie the Bolt

===Camping accessories and other bits===
*[http://www.sallypointer.com/shop/ Sally Pointer] Hats and bits and bobs
*[http://www.smoke-fire.com/ Smoke and Fire] American company.
*[http://www.medieval-market.com/ Medieval Market] German company (English language website) – Clothing, furniture, and other items
*[http://medievaldresscompany.com/index.htm Medieval Dress Company] Clothing and leatherwork
*[http://www.matuls.pl/index.php?IDP=1&Lng=en Matuls] Clothing, armour tents and camp accessories from Poland (English language website)
*[http://www.reenactors-shop.de/ Reenactors Shop] German company (English language website) Lots of bits and bobs, including camping accessories.
*[http://www.medievaldesign.com/english.asp Medieval design] 1st -16th century clothing, furniture and other historical products.

===Flags, banners and livery badges===
*[http://www.medievalartandwoodcraft.com Medieval Art and Woodcraft] Historical and historically inspired banners, flags and livery badges

===Pewter and cast goods===
*[http://www.castsfromthepast.co.uk/main.htm Casts from the Past] Pewter items including livery badges and some household items
*[https://www.quietpress.com/ The Quiet Press] Historical buckles, brooches and other ornamental metalwork
*[http://www.billyandcharlie.com/ Billy and Charlie's Finest Quality Pewter Goods] American company. Pewter badges and other accessories.
*[http://www.hr-replikate.de/englisch/index.htm HR-Replikate] German company. Jewellery based on archeological finds (English language website)
*[http://www.lionheartreplicas.co.uk/ Lionheart Replicas] Pewterwear
*[http://www.pewterreplicas.co.uk/ Pewter Replicas] Pewter badges, household items and livery collars

===Wooden items===
*[http://www.douggiethewood.co.uk/ Douggie the Wood] Wooden Furniture
*[http://www.robin-wood.co.uk/index.htm Robin Wood] Authentic wood turned historical items
*[http://www.vicus.org.uk/woodturner/index.htm Paul Atkin] Bowls and other hand turned items

===Tents===
*[https://www.canvastentshop.co.uk/default.htm Canvas Tents]

[[Category:The Marches]]
[[Category:Nations]]

File:Richard Talbot in Plate.jpg

2016-04-26T08:03:58Z

Gereon: Fix Name. Oops.

Steward Richard Talbot (Nik Gaukroger) and the Talbot banner 
Autumn Equinox 2015 
{{Category:Photos:OliverFacey}}

File:Henry Talbot in Plate.jpg

2016-04-26T08:03:19Z

Gereon: Gereon moved page File:Henry Talbot in Plate.jpg to File:Richard Talbot in Plate.jpg: Oops.

#REDIRECT [[File:Richard Talbot in Plate.jpg]]

File:Richard Talbot in Plate.jpg

2016-04-26T08:03:19Z

Gereon: Gereon moved page File:Henry Talbot in Plate.jpg to File:Richard Talbot in Plate.jpg: Oops.

Steward Henry Talbot (Nik Gaukroger) and the Talbot banner 
Autumn Equinox 2015 
{{Category:Photos:OliverFacey}}

The Brass Coast magical traditions

2016-04-25T22:10:16Z

Gereon: Make distinction more obvious

{{CaptionedImage|file=FreebornMagician.jpg|align=left|width=400|title=Dust, Brass Coast Egregore, opening the Sentinel gate using traditional music, dance and audience participation.|caption=Freeborn magic is often bold, entertaining and dramatic.}}
Magic is a source of wonder and pleasure to the Freeborn. They expect people performing magic to entertain, and many Freeborn magicians will enhance their rituals with stage magic tricks simply to please the crowd. Some Freeborn learn a handful of non-magical sleight-of-hand tricks or illusions while a few entertainers specialize enough to develop a whole act.

Within a family there is often at least one individual who has made a more serious study of magic. These individuals accept a responsibility for teaching relatives who are interested in learning a few magical knacks, and use their magic to help their family and harm their enemies as well as try to scry the vagaries of fortune and fate. These magicians tend to be practical, and often combine their study of magic with crafting or medicinal lore.

Freeborn ritualists practice a tradition that says ritual magic is the act of building up power from the participants and creating a connection to the Realms, rather than the more traditional assumption that the magician draws power down from the Realms to the world. As such, all their rituals attempt to include their bystanders as participants whether that is chanting, clapping or singing.

Magicians of each tribe bring a unique perspective to their magical arts.
* The Riqueza perform ritual magic using loud, rhythmic, energetic drumming.
* The Guerra prefer physical movement combined with fire and light.
* The Erigo use a less energetic style, often accompanying their rituals with soothing, harmonious music.
Most Freeborn ritual groups prefer to work magic at night, in the open air, in the same way their founders did.

While ritual magicians within a family are hardly unknown, the more powerful and organised magicians in Freeborn society are the [[Hakima]]. These politically active covens view other Freeborn magicians as unsophisticated dabblers at best, and ignorant meddlers at worst. The Hakima are highly skilled practitioners of ritual magic and custodians of magical lore handed down to them by the founders of the tribes. They are dedicated to preserving the integrity of the nation as a whole and regularly look to recruit competent ritual magicians from the tribes into their own circles.

More than being just magicians, the Hakima exemplify a connection to the founders of the tribes and the history of the Freeborn. They are traditionally held to be wise, able to perceive the larger picture more effectively than most Freeborn who are anchored in more mundane activities. They may be consulted when important decisions need to be made within a family, or when magical assistance is sought. They rarely wait to be consulted however – a Hakima is likely to be poking around any important business ready to offer a suggestion as to what to do next.

<row-fluid>
<span12>{{CaptionedImage|file=FreebornDrumming.jpg|width=300|caption=Freeborn rituals often involve drumming,}} {{CaptionedImage|file=FreebornFlame.jpg|width=300|caption=dancing (sometimes with fire and light),}} {{CaptionedImage|file=FreebornMusic.jpg|width=300|caption=or soothing, harmonious music.}}</span12>
</row-fluid>

[[Category:The Brass Coast]]
[[Category:Nations]]

The Marches magical traditions

2016-04-25T22:08:38Z

Gereon:

{{CaptionedImage|file=Landkeeper.jpg|align=right|width=300}}
Despite their apparent focus on the mundane, the Marches has a strong tradition of spellcasting and ritual magics. Their ritual magic in particular is used to great effect to help ensure excellent harvests and to prepare yeoman soldiers for war. A great deal of Marcher magic comes from concepts of ownership of land; of harnessing the symbollic power in the wheel of the seasons; and of the connection between the human body (flesh, sweat, breath) and the physical world (soil, water, wind).

Spellcasting is often seen as a practical discipline. A doctor is as likely to know a charm to [[heal]] as to rely solely on [[Surgical skills#Apothecary|herbs and potions]]; a respected blacksmith may use a magical word to [[mend]] a damaged pot - or weapon. The magic they wield is steeped in tradition; the methods they use have been handed down from one magician to another for centuries. This means that both the village healer and the powerful ritualist alike are wielding magic tried and tested by the generations that have gone before them.

A great deal of magical power rests in the hands of the [[Landskeeper|landskeepers]], politically powerful magicians who safeguard the customs of the Marches and see to its magical wellbeing. They are steeped in tradition, and tend to be given a wary repect by the folk of the Marches. By contrast, the [[#Mummers|Mummers]] practice a rough and ready form of magic that is often seen as suspect, unreliable or downright dangerous - but does not prevent them being in demand for the kind of magical workings that may be seen as beneath the notice of the "stuffy" landskeepers. Both groups look down on ''hedge wizards'' - magicians at the beck and call of a steward.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Mari Lwydish.png|title=Mummers are much in demand during Wassail|align=right|width=300}}
==Mummers==
Some Marcher magicians practice [[dramaturgy]], and join together in bands of ''mummers''. They tend to maintain an itinerant existence combining the practice of ritual magic with entertainment. Traveling from place to place freely, they attend fairs, markets and other regular gatherings performing plays and feats of skill. They are often greeted with a little suspicion - compared by some uncharitable souls to the [[mountebank|mountebanks]] of the League. Some [[Market town|market towns]] observe local ordinances that ban mummers from spending the night in their environs.

Mummers pride themselves on working magic through improvisation, without scripts but with a strong intuitive feel for the stories they create and the roles they use to work their magic. The [[Dramaturgy#The_Personae|personae]] are usually presented with a single key prop rather than a mask or sumptuous costume, while the [[Dramaturgy#The_Thrones|thrones]] are generally established by narration rather than through expensive - and unwieldy - scenery. Almost all groups of mummers include [[Dramaturgy#The_Fool|the fool]] as a major character, weaving narration and commentary through the performance as the personae act out the events they describe - the fool is also responsible for encouraging audience participation and attracting patrons prepared to pay a few coins for the magic or entertainment the mummers provide. In contrast to League dramaturgists, the fool is often the only member of the band who wears a mask.

Their plays are often rough and full of broad humour, but no less effective at providing entertainment or instruction for all that. It is quite common for bands of mummers to have a broad mastery of ritual lores rather than to focus in any one lore - many pride themselves on mastering the four rituals that allow a [[farm]] to be [[enchantment|enchanted]] through the year. They use the opportunity of seasonal fairs to stage grand performances that enchant all the farms in the vicinity usually for a suitable donation from the yeomen who own those farms.

The tradition clearly has roots in the [[Dawn|Dawnish]] traditions of the [[Dawn magical traditions#Guisers|guisers]].

== Sorcery and the Threshers ==
Someone who is suspected of using magic in ways that violate Marcher traditions faces shunning or worse. The [[Declaration#Declaration_of_Sorcery|Declaration of Sorcery]] used by the [[Imperial Conclave]] was originally a Marcher idea. The [[Landskeeper|landskeepers]] could judge fellow magicians accused of misusing their magic, declaring them to be sorcerers and punishing them for their misdeeds.

There is a common belief in the Marches that all magic should be done publicly. Only sorcery is done in private - "dark minds find dark places to do dark deeds" so the saying goes. That is not to say that every magical ritual requires an audience, but the more effort the practitioners make to keep people from seeing what they are doing, the more suspect their magic must be.

Some Marchers dedicate themselves to tracking down, exposing and destroying sorcerers wherever they may operate. They are called Threshers and they watch for things that are ''wrong''. Every farmer knows about separating wheat from chaff, and the Threshers look to separate human wheat from human chaff. They seek out those who are using magic or old lore against the interest of the people. Where crimes are being committed they work with the [[Marches Military Concerns#Beaters|beaters]] and landskeepers to capture the sorcerer and hand them over to Imperial justice. If the sorcerer has not broken any Imperial laws then the [[Marches Culture and Customs#Rough Music|rough music]] is their punishment, or [[Marches Culture and Customs#Shunning|shunning]] if they persist. It falls to the Thresher to convince the folk of the Marches that these punishments are merited, and in many cases to oversee their performance.

Several Threshers expand their interests to include the rest of the Empire, looking for villains outside the borders of the Marches whose wickedness threatens - or may eventually threaten - the innocent folk of their Nation. These Threshers have an interests in groups such as the circle of sinister sorcerors called the [[Volodny]], or the most powerful barbarian shamans, who threaten the Marches by dint of the threat they present to the entire Empire.

[[Category:The Marches]]
[[Category:Nations]]
[[Category:Magic]]

File:Contains Rain.jpg

2016-04-25T22:02:26Z

Gereon: a colon was missing, use template instead

{{Category:Photos:BethDooner}}
Can't rain all the time

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-25T21:59:02Z

Gereon: /* 10 Quick Costuming Tips */

{{CaptionedImage|file=Wassail with Scarecrow.jpg|caption=[[Wassail]], the harvest festival|width=300|align=left}}
==Overview==
[[The Marches]] draws strongly on English history from the 12th century through to the War of the Roses for costume, weaponry and armour.

The costume of the Marches has a 'solidity' to it, a worn, lived-in look that contrasts with its neighbour [[Dawn]]'s high romance, gleaming plate and vivid hues. The Marches is Kenneth Brannagh’s Henry V rather than Laurence Olivier’s.

<ic style="clear:both">
We strive to treat the mud with care
with lots of muck and tilling. 
And it repays us thousandfold:
That’s why its so fulfilling. 
And when the day is over,
we’ll drink a glass or more, 
to Marcher mud - its in our blood, ingrained in every pore. 
We’re down to earth,
down and dirty:
Digging for victory.
</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Shanks_Awning.jpg|width=300|align=left}}
==Breakdown==
===Feel===
Gritty, solid, practical, traditional, mud, blood, green fields, rural, iron.
===Influences===
Wars of the Roses England, Rangers of Ithilien (Beaters), Cadfael (Monks and Landskeepers).
{{CaptionedImage|file=Marches_colour_scheme.png|width=400|height=100|align=right}}
===Materials===
Wool, calico, linen, leather.
===Colours===
Plain flat colours, mostly the soft colours of natural dyes or unbleached
cloth. The palette is autumnal suggesting natural dull blues, greys, browns/
rusts, mustards and greens, dull reds etc. especially at the lower end of
the social scale. Wealthier Marchers may use deeper, brighter shades.
===Icons===
* '''Livery''' Members of a household generally wear their livery in some way – as a [[livery coat]], [[sash]] or [[pewter badge]].
* '''Poppets''' and other symbols of the land play an important role in [[the Marches hearth magic]]. Many Marchers, all children and every home in the Marches have at least one poppet.
* '''Apples''' The symbol the apple, and fruit and seed in general, is a common representation of the soul and the cycle of rebirth.
* '''Crow''' and '''Rat''' are both images of ill-omen and bad luck.
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesHats.jpg|width=300|align=right}}

==Clothing==
Marchers favour plain clothes, [[tunic]]s, simple [[hood]]s, hose and [[shirt]]s. Wealthier characters might wear finer [[robe]]s, cotehardies or a simple doublet, but even then plain wool or heavy linen will be more appropriate than fancy patterns or embroidery.
Medieval re-enactments are a great source of inspiration for the look and feel of the Marches territories - although unlike history, its worth noting that Marches society is gender neutral.

Marcher leg wear is practical and slim fitting. Close fitting trousers are practical and easy to come by or make.
[[Hose]], either joined or split, are worn with [[braies]] and a long shirt. An extremely simple untailored cut for shirts fits the Marches very well: Full in the body and sleeve, possibly gathered at neck and wrist.

[[Doublet]]s are popular in the Marches, a snug-fitting buttoned jacket that is shaped and fitted to the body. It can be worn over the shirt or under another layer of clothing. They tend to be short and simple – fancy slash work doesn't really fit the Marchers practical approach.

A woollen or heavy linen overdress
such as a [[kirtle]] or [[cotehardie]] over a shirt or [[shift]]
is be a good alternative to shirts and hose.
The look is long, lean and smooth and laced to fit.
Back lacing shows higher status and gives a better line. Side lacing is more common.
It would be rare to see a gathered skirt (common to Tudor kirtles) in the Marches.

Headwear is frequently worn, from a simple cap or [[coif]], to [[hat]]s or something like a [[hood]] with liripipe or a [[chaperon]].

Marchers have no pockets, so a pouch is invaluable – [[bollock pouch|bollock]] or [[kidney pouch]]es
or leather bags are perfect. Belts are often very long, wrapped round,
looped at the front and left to dangle.

The [[#Monks and Friars|typical clothing]] of both male and femals [[The_Marches_religious_beliefs|monks and friars]] consists of a [[#Monks and Friars|traditional plain monk's habit]].

{{CaptionedImage|file=Marcher Camp.jpg|title=The hearth is the core of a Marcher home, even in Anvil.|width=250|height=250|align=right}}
==Camps==

Gates and doors are traditionally decorated with woven bundles of grain on either side, the respect shown to the land prevents evil doers from entering. The hearth is where food taken from the land is prepared. It should always be kept clean and ideally be decorated with fresh cut flowers to prevent food cooked there causing a poison of the blood. Poor March Folk or those on campaign will make do with bundles of grass or common meadow flowers.
 
{{CaptionedImage|file=Marchers_through_Sentinel_Gate.jpg|title=The Marches march out through the sentinel gate|width=800|height=400|align=left}}
==Weaponry==
The classic Marcher fighting unit is a block of assorted polearms recruited from the yeomanry. Prosperous marchers often wear plate and wield great swords, poleaxes or hammers, shattering gaps open for the billfolk to exploit.

Bows, in particular longbows, are also a common sight among the Marchers units on the battlefield.
===Armour===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Rosamund_Mage_Armour.jpg|title=Mage armour protects the battle mage|width=200|height=200|align=right}}
Padded [[gambeson]]s or [[leather jack]]s are common for the poor, with a [[harness of plate]] for richer individuals. [[Brigandine]]s are an intermediate option. Households often wear matching [[livery coat]]s, although simple [[sash]]es or badges are also used to denote affiliation. [[Jack chain]]s over a gambeson are ideal for a Marcher yeoman.

[[Weapons & Armour#Mage Armour|Mage armour]] is often from similar materials - fabric, leather and possibly pieces of chain mail - in both natural and household colours, but is more likely to be adorned and decorated with elements of no immediately obvious use.
===Weapons===
Bows are common. In hand-to-hand combat Marchers favour bills and other pole-arms. Two handed swords are common for richer characters in heavier armour, as well as warhammers, maces or poleaxes. Any historical weapons from the Hundred Years War and the War of the Roses are typical: poleaxes, bills and other polearms are iconic; warhammers, bollock daggers, axes, falchions, mauls, and improvised weapons based on farm equipment are all carried by some.
====Shields====
Large shields are much less common than in other nations; shield-walls are seen as a tactic best left behind in Dawn. Marchers who have a good reason not to use a pole-arm or a great sword, such as martial Landskeepers fearing arrows, or skirmish groups protecting the flanks will often use a small buckler to go alongside their weapon of choice.
 
==Marcher household==
Any Marcher who owns farmland is a member of a [[Marcher_Household|household]], albeit perhaps a household of one, and any Marcher Household can declare a '''livery'''. Members of the household tend to wear the livery colours in some way. Stewards of a household that allies to a more powerful household usually retain their own livery, or combine it with the new households’ colours in some way. Households often wear matching [[livery coat|livery jackets]], although simple [[sash]]es or [[badge]]s are also effective ways of showing affiliation. Many households own a banner showing their livery.

{{CaptionedImage|file=Kings Stoke Fighters.jpg|width=600|Marcher Household arrayed for battle.|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Balston Fighting.jpg|width=600|House Balston|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarcherFamily.jpg|width=600|In livery from a young age|height=200|align=left}}
 
==Yeomen==
Poor [[Yeoman of the Marches|Yeomen]] may wear just a plain coloured jack or padded gambeson as their only armour.
Wealthier Yeomen usually have livery coats in their Household colours and mail or plate over the
top if they have it.
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen1.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen2.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen3.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Erwillian Mann.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=CullachMarching.jpg|width=500|height=250}}

==Stewards==
The head of a household, a [[steward]], may wear richer colours, but most likely in home grown wool not rarer silk. Wealthy Marchers are often seen in full harness of plate in battle.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Henry Talbot in Plate.jpg|title=Film: Ironclad|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards2.jpg|title=Film: Ironclad|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards3.jpg|title=Film: Snow White and the Huntsman|width=187|height=250}}

==Beaters==
[[The_Marches_military_concerns#Beaters|Beaters]] are skilled trackers and gamekeepers. They watch the borders of the Marches. They are inspired by the classic British archers of the period mixed with the Rangers of Ithilien from Lord of the Rings.
Beaters usually wear lighter armour, either just a padded or leather jack or else a leather tunic like the ones worn by the Rangers in Lord of the Rings.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Beater Andrew Daybell.jpg|caption=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|title=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|width=350|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Morgan Archer.jpg|title=Morgan Archer, House Talbot. Beater, hunter and game keeper.|caption=Morgan Archer (Judith Ressler)|width=220|height=200}}
== Aldermen and Townsfolk==
Many [[The Marches economic interests|aldermen]] take great pride in their ceremonial chains of office, sometimes referred to as "Chains of Prosperity". Some go so far as to commission them as magical items, such as an [[Alderman's Edge]].
{{CaptionedImage|file=Friar Alan.jpg|width=187|height=250|align=right}}
==Monks and Friars==
Both male and female [[The Marches religious beliefs|monks and friars]] wear traditional plain [[monk's habit]] either
in dark colours, or white with a dark [[scapular]].
A simple brown [[cassock]] works well but it might also be seen in black or
grey. A more complex arrangement with dark scapular over white undergarments is also a popular choice.

A [[chasuble]] or [[cowl]] is often worn over the habit, in particular during the cold seasons.
 
==Landskeepers==
Some [[The Marches magical traditions#Landskeepers|landskeepers]] wear [[robe]]s, similar to the monk, but a [[jerkin]], shirt and hose, with rolled-up sleeves is just as good an alternative. A landskeeper is well used to hard work in the fields and their look reflects that.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Landkeeper.jpg|width=402|height=200}}

==Children's costumes==
[[The Marches children|Children in the Marches]] can be dressed in scaled down versions of their parent's clothes. For toddlers and babies, traditional [[smock]]s, or simple t-[[tunic]]s and [[drawstring trousers]] are simple and easy to pull-on garments, that can be made in linen or cotton for easy washing! These types of clothes also have plenty of flexibility in terms of size, meaning you'll get more than one year's use out of them. Small [[coif]]s are great for keeping the sun off a baby's head and simple [[Hat#Straw Hat|straw hats]] can also be used to stop children burning. Older children can either have their own costumes, or be given adult clothes which are then rolled up and belted to fit - the practical Marchers are unlikely to waste any clothing and hand me downs are a cheap (in and out of character!) way to clothe children.

General tips for costume for children:
* Robes that stop at knee - mid-calf will be less of a trip hazard
* Headgear that can be very simply retied is great
* Avoiding things that can pull around the neck is wise (strings on cloaks/hats on cords/ tabards that don't secure under the arms
* Wider neck holes, sleeves and armholes will help with getting costume on and off, and leave room for growth

*[http://www.mathildegirlgenius.com/Documentation/KASF2006/InfantOutfit.pdf Information on clothes and swaddling for babies]
*[http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mae1215.html Patterns for Medieval children's clothes]
*[http://www.fabric-dreams.co.uk/Children/Burda-Schnitt-Muster-historisches-Kleid-Gr-98-128::8480.html Childrens' dresses]
*[http://www.fabric-dreams.co.uk/Carneval-Costumes/Burda-Schnitt-Muster-Karnevalskostuem-Musketier-104-140::8481.html Childrens' shirt, tunic and hood]
*[http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m5499-products-8715.php?page_id=915 'Mother and Daughter' dresses]
*[http://www.revivalclothing.com/medievalchildrensclothing.aspx Revival Clothing's Premade items for children]
*[http://www.gambeson.pl/medieval-on-line-shop/medieval-clothing-for-kids.html Gambeson's Premade items for children]
{{CaptionedImage|file=CM-130726-0034.jpg|width=187|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MG0690.jpg|width=400|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesChild4.jpg|width=187|height=200|caption=Costume by [http://www.cloakedanddaggered.com/menu/childrenswear/ Cloak'd and Dagger'd]}}

==10 Quick Costuming Tips==
* Charity shop fabric rails are a great source of wool blankets that can be made into staples of Marcher costume.
* With the popularity of medieval re-enactment, its very easy to buy off the peg [[hose]], [[doublet]]s, [[cotehardie]] and other key pieces. 12th–15th century kit is preferable to Tudor kit when choosing on-line or at kit fairs.
* Instead of actual [[hose]], any reasonably close fitting trousers in earthy or dark colours will look good for practical Marches characters.
* Households and families are important in the Marches - displaying the house livery can be done cheaply through simple [[sash]]es or [[badge]]s or if you fancy something a bit clearer, follow the guides for [[livery coat]]s.
* There are a range of options for practical [[Shoes|footwear]] - from bespoke re-enactment shoes to simple desert boots. Any soft leather or suede with simple ties, laces or side buckles will look good.
* There is no need to worried about all that itchy wool and linen: [[Shirt]]s and [[shift]]s are both are simple, loose and easily available in cotton and make a good part of the Marchers look. And whilst re-enactment markets are very useful for Marcher supplies, we're not looking for historical accuracy here – There's no expectation for you to be in itchy underwear!
* For those playing a rich Marcher, it could be easy to make choices that make the costume seem very similar to neighbouring Dawn. By sticking to plain fabrics (wool, maybe velvet, but not silks or brocades) and choosing rich autumnal colours rather than bright summery ones confusion can be avoided.
* Marcher beaters who are likely to wear [[light leather armour]] can avoid being confused with Steinr and Navarr by staying away from furs and going for classic Marcher accessories. [[Bollock pouch]]es are one example that are really simple to make and easily available to buy.
* Want to indicate low status? Try adding an [[apron]] or [[leather trousers]] or swap a doublet for a sleeveless [[jerkin]].
* Want to show off high status? Try doing so very discreetly, with a rich lining or carefully chosen buttons rather than ostentatious trims and decoration.

==Things you're unlikely to see==
* Don't expect 'bling' in the Marches, even the wealthy are likely to be subtle - with wealth displayed in linings and button detail, not slashed sleeves, full gathered fabrics, or rich embroidery or brocade.
* You won't find anyone worrying about hand stitching, whether that coat is too long for 1389 or what your underwear is made of. The Marches is a historically inspired culture, not a historically accurate one.
* There are no modesty guidelines in the Marches and gender roles don't follow the historical pattern - long skirts and laced dresses are a choice made by some not an expectation of all.

=Costume Sources=
As the Marches draw on inspiration from Earth history, there are both vendors of appropriate items of costume and documents dealing with the costume styles easily available for Marcher players looking for more details.

===Historical Women's Wear Reference Material===
As with military clothes, dresses can reflect household livery. 'Parti-coloured' (or split coloured) dresses look very effective.
[http://www.laracorsets.com/15th_Cen_Womens_clothing.htm Lara Corset's] website gives an excellent overview of all aspects of women's wardrobes in the late 1400s,

[http://matildalazouche.livejournal.com/ Matilda la Zouche's] wardrobe follows the reconstruction of several historically accurate outfits for a broad medieval period.

Some general pattern books are available which cover all types of women's wear:
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=240 Medieval Women's dress]
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=227 High medieval women's dress]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Medieval-Tailors-Assistant-1200-1500/dp/0896762394/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1341860986&sr=8-2 The Medieval Tailor’s Assistant]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/Make-Your-Own-Medieval-Clothing/dp/393892215X/ref=pd_sim_sbs_b_1 Make Your Own Medieval Clothing for women].
* [http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mag1314.html Nehelenia Patterns - Multi part pattern for men and women]

===Historical Men's Wear Reference Material===
{{CaptionedImage|file=ttunic.jpg|width=300|align=right|caption=T-tunic}}
Some general pattern books are available which cover all types of men's wear:
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=234 High Medieval men's dress]
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=229 Medieval men's dress]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Medieval-Tailors-Assistant-1200-1500/dp/0896762394/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1341860986&sr=8-2 The Medieval Tailor’s Assistant]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/Make-Your-Own-Medieval-Clothing/dp/3938922141/ref=pd_sim_sbs_b_2 Make Your Own Medieval Clothing for Men]
* [http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mag1314.html Nehelenia Patterns - Multi part pattern for men and women]

===Reenactment Sources===
[http://images.google.com/images?q=medieval+reenactment Medieval re-enactment], [http://images.google.com/images?q=wars+of+the+roses+reenactment Wars of the roses] and [http://images.google.com/images?q=13th+century+reenactment 13th], [http://images.google.com/images?q=14th+century+reenactment 14th] or [http://images.google.com/images?q=15th+century+reenactment 15th] Century re-enactment will all provide helpful inspiration.

===Guides to Livery===
*[http://www.historiclife.com/pdf/KASF2008/15thCenturyLivery.pdf 15th Century Livery]
*[http://www.bucks-retinue.org.uk/content/view/177/243/ Livery coats]
*[http://www.vexillia.ltd.uk/common/shop_books.html#5 Standards, Badges & Livery Colours of the Wars of the Roses], Pat McGill & Jonathan Jones, Freezywater Publications
*[http://www.vexillia.ltd.uk/common/shop_books.html#5 Heraldic Banners of the Wars of the Roses] (3 vols), Pat McGill & Thomas Coveney, Frezywater Publications.
*[http://www.medievalartandwoodcraft.com Medieval Art and Woodcraft] make livery badges, banners and flags, signage, medical charts etc. to order

===Books===
* The Medieval Soldier: 15th Century Campaign Life Recreated in Colour Photographs, Gerry Embleton & John Howe,
* English Medieval Knight 1400-1500, Christopher Gravett, Osprey Publishing
* The Great Warbow, Matthew Strickland & Robert Hardy, Sutton Publishing – probably the best accessible book you can get on the subject.
* Arms and Armour of the Medieval Knight, David Edge & John Miles Paddock, Saturn Books

===Costume sellers===
*[https://www.facebook.com/themidgardseamstress The Midgard Seamstress] Custom made UK LARP and Re-enactment costumes
*[http://armstreet.com/ Arm Street] Medieval and Fantasy clothing from Russia (English language website)
*[http://www.cloakedanddaggered.com Cloak’d and Dagger’d]
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/customcostumecompany/ Custom Costume Company] Bespoke designs for re-enactors and roleplayers
*[http://historicenterprises.com Historic Enterprises]American based costume company. Trades at TORM
*[http://medievaldresscompany.com/index.htm Medieval Dress Company] Clothing and leatherwork
*[http://www.matuls.pl/index.php?IDP=1&Lng=en Matuls] Clothing, armour tents and camp accessories from Poland (English language website)
*[http://www.revivalclothing.com/ Revival Clothing]
*[http://www.sallygreen.co.uk Sally Green]
*[http://www.sew-mill.com Sew-mill]

===Armourers===
*https://www.facebook.com/ArmourServices
*https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Medieval-Rats/147041485362649
*http://www.armabohemia.cz/Novestr/homeA.htm
*http://www.armorymarek.com/
*http://www.bestarmour.com/
*http://www.capapie.co.uk/
*http://www.dtok.fsnet.co.uk/
*http://www.lancasters-armourie.co.uk/
*http://www.stgeorgearmouryshop.co.uk/index2.html
*http://www.whiteroseapparel.com/
*http://www.whiterosearmoury.com/
*[http://www.darkbladeuk.co.uk/EMPIRE-LARP/Marches/c-1-114-121/ Darkblade] studded leather armour
* [https://www.facebook.com/TotallyLeathered Totally Leathered] [[Totally Leathered]] provides custom tooled leatherwork & bespoke armour.
* [[Idiom Productions]] Costume and Props Workshop creates custom hand-tooled leather armour, clothing and LRP weapons
* [[Evenlode Studios]] - High quality leather armour, costume and props handmade

===Leather items including shoes===
*[http://www.philfraser.com/index.htm Phil Fraser]
*[http://www.re-enactment-shoes.co.uk/ Re-enactment shoes ]
*[http://www.np-historicalshoes.com/home.php?lang=en Historical Shoes]
*[http://www.historische-schuhe.de/epages/61580448.sf/en_GB/?ViewObjectID=102641CP-Schule Historic Shoes] German company (English language website)
*[http://ravenswoodleather.com/index.php?p=home Ravenswood Leather Items] America site. Non-historical leather items.

===Fur and traditional materials===
*[http://www.houseofdeclifford.co.uk/ House of de Clifford] Ethically sourced furs of all kinds
*[http://www.candles-for-all-ages.com/ Candles for All Ages] Tallow and Beeswax Candles
*Herts Fabrics
*Bernie the Bolt

===Camping accessories and other bits===
*[http://www.sallypointer.com/shop/ Sally Pointer] Hats and bits and bobs
*[http://www.smoke-fire.com/ Smoke and Fire] American company.
*[http://www.medieval-market.com/ Medieval Market] German company (English language website) – Clothing, furniture, and other items
*[http://medievaldresscompany.com/index.htm Medieval Dress Company] Clothing and leatherwork
*[http://www.matuls.pl/index.php?IDP=1&Lng=en Matuls] Clothing, armour tents and camp accessories from Poland (English language website)
*[http://www.reenactors-shop.de/ Reenactors Shop] German company (English language website) Lots of bits and bobs, including camping accessories.
*[http://www.medievaldesign.com/english.asp Medieval design] 1st -16th century clothing, furniture and other historical products.

===Flags, banners and livery badges===
*[http://www.medievalartandwoodcraft.com Medieval Art and Woodcraft] Historical and historically inspired banners, flags and livery badges

===Pewter and cast goods===
*[http://www.castsfromthepast.co.uk/main.htm Casts from the Past] Pewter items including livery badges and some household items
*[https://www.quietpress.com/ The Quiet Press] Historical buckles, brooches and other ornamental metalwork
*[http://www.billyandcharlie.com/ Billy and Charlie's Finest Quality Pewter Goods] American company. Pewter badges and other accessories.
*[http://www.hr-replikate.de/englisch/index.htm HR-Replikate] German company. Jewellery based on archeological finds (English language website)
*[http://www.lionheartreplicas.co.uk/ Lionheart Replicas] Pewterwear
*[http://www.pewterreplicas.co.uk/ Pewter Replicas] Pewter badges, household items and livery collars

===Wooden items===
*[http://www.douggiethewood.co.uk/ Douggie the Wood] Wooden Furniture
*[http://www.robin-wood.co.uk/index.htm Robin Wood] Authentic wood turned historical items
*[http://www.vicus.org.uk/woodturner/index.htm Paul Atkin] Bowls and other hand turned items

===Tents===
*[https://www.canvastentshop.co.uk/default.htm Canvas Tents]

[[Category:The Marches]]
[[Category:Nations]]

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-25T21:51:40Z

Gereon: /* Icons */

{{CaptionedImage|file=Wassail with Scarecrow.jpg|caption=[[Wassail]], the harvest festival|width=300|align=left}}
==Overview==
[[The Marches]] draws strongly on English history from the 12th century through to the War of the Roses for costume, weaponry and armour.

The costume of the Marches has a 'solidity' to it, a worn, lived-in look that contrasts with its neighbour [[Dawn]]'s high romance, gleaming plate and vivid hues. The Marches is Kenneth Brannagh’s Henry V rather than Laurence Olivier’s.

<ic style="clear:both">
We strive to treat the mud with care
with lots of muck and tilling. 
And it repays us thousandfold:
That’s why its so fulfilling. 
And when the day is over,
we’ll drink a glass or more, 
to Marcher mud - its in our blood, ingrained in every pore. 
We’re down to earth,
down and dirty:
Digging for victory.
</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Shanks_Awning.jpg|width=300|align=left}}
==Breakdown==
===Feel===
Gritty, solid, practical, traditional, mud, blood, green fields, rural, iron.
===Influences===
Wars of the Roses England, Rangers of Ithilien (Beaters), Cadfael (Monks and Landskeepers).
{{CaptionedImage|file=Marches_colour_scheme.png|width=400|height=100|align=right}}
===Materials===
Wool, calico, linen, leather.
===Colours===
Plain flat colours, mostly the soft colours of natural dyes or unbleached
cloth. The palette is autumnal suggesting natural dull blues, greys, browns/
rusts, mustards and greens, dull reds etc. especially at the lower end of
the social scale. Wealthier Marchers may use deeper, brighter shades.
===Icons===
* '''Livery''' Members of a household generally wear their livery in some way – as a [[livery coat]], [[sash]] or [[pewter badge]].
* '''Poppets''' and other symbols of the land play an important role in [[the Marches hearth magic]]. Many Marchers, all children and every home in the Marches have at least one poppet.
* '''Apples''' The symbol the apple, and fruit and seed in general, is a common representation of the soul and the cycle of rebirth.
* '''Crow''' and '''Rat''' are both images of ill-omen and bad luck.
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesHats.jpg|width=300|align=right}}

==Clothing==
Marchers favour plain clothes, [[tunic]]s, simple [[hood]]s, hose and [[shirt]]s. Wealthier characters might wear finer [[robe]]s, cotehardies or a simple doublet, but even then plain wool or heavy linen will be more appropriate than fancy patterns or embroidery.
Medieval re-enactments are a great source of inspiration for the look and feel of the Marches territories - although unlike history, its worth noting that Marches society is gender neutral.

Marcher leg wear is practical and slim fitting. Close fitting trousers are practical and easy to come by or make.
[[Hose]], either joined or split, are worn with [[braies]] and a long shirt. An extremely simple untailored cut for shirts fits the Marches very well: Full in the body and sleeve, possibly gathered at neck and wrist.

[[Doublet]]s are popular in the Marches, a snug-fitting buttoned jacket that is shaped and fitted to the body. It can be worn over the shirt or under another layer of clothing. They tend to be short and simple – fancy slash work doesn't really fit the Marchers practical approach.

A woollen or heavy linen overdress
such as a [[kirtle]] or [[cotehardie]] over a shirt or [[shift]]
is be a good alternative to shirts and hose.
The look is long, lean and smooth and laced to fit.
Back lacing shows higher status and gives a better line. Side lacing is more common.
It would be rare to see a gathered skirt (common to Tudor kirtles) in the Marches.

Headwear is frequently worn, from a simple cap or [[coif]], to [[hat]]s or something like a [[hood]] with liripipe or a [[chaperon]].

Marchers have no pockets, so a pouch is invaluable – [[bollock pouch|bollock]] or [[kidney pouch]]es
or leather bags are perfect. Belts are often very long, wrapped round,
looped at the front and left to dangle.

The [[#Monks and Friars|typical clothing]] of both male and femals [[The_Marches_religious_beliefs|monks and friars]] consists of a [[#Monks and Friars|traditional plain monk's habit]].

{{CaptionedImage|file=Marcher Camp.jpg|title=The hearth is the core of a Marcher home, even in Anvil.|width=250|height=250|align=right}}
==Camps==

Gates and doors are traditionally decorated with woven bundles of grain on either side, the respect shown to the land prevents evil doers from entering. The hearth is where food taken from the land is prepared. It should always be kept clean and ideally be decorated with fresh cut flowers to prevent food cooked there causing a poison of the blood. Poor March Folk or those on campaign will make do with bundles of grass or common meadow flowers.
 
{{CaptionedImage|file=Marchers_through_Sentinel_Gate.jpg|title=The Marches march out through the sentinel gate|width=800|height=400|align=left}}
==Weaponry==
The classic Marcher fighting unit is a block of assorted polearms recruited from the yeomanry. Prosperous marchers often wear plate and wield great swords, poleaxes or hammers, shattering gaps open for the billfolk to exploit.

Bows, in particular longbows, are also a common sight among the Marchers units on the battlefield.
===Armour===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Rosamund_Mage_Armour.jpg|title=Mage armour protects the battle mage|width=200|height=200|align=right}}
Padded [[gambeson]]s or [[leather jack]]s are common for the poor, with a [[harness of plate]] for richer individuals. [[Brigandine]]s are an intermediate option. Households often wear matching [[livery coat]]s, although simple [[sash]]es or badges are also used to denote affiliation. [[Jack chain]]s over a gambeson are ideal for a Marcher yeoman.

[[Weapons & Armour#Mage Armour|Mage armour]] is often from similar materials - fabric, leather and possibly pieces of chain mail - in both natural and household colours, but is more likely to be adorned and decorated with elements of no immediately obvious use.
===Weapons===
Bows are common. In hand-to-hand combat Marchers favour bills and other pole-arms. Two handed swords are common for richer characters in heavier armour, as well as warhammers, maces or poleaxes. Any historical weapons from the Hundred Years War and the War of the Roses are typical: poleaxes, bills and other polearms are iconic; warhammers, bollock daggers, axes, falchions, mauls, and improvised weapons based on farm equipment are all carried by some.
====Shields====
Large shields are much less common than in other nations; shield-walls are seen as a tactic best left behind in Dawn. Marchers who have a good reason not to use a pole-arm or a great sword, such as martial Landskeepers fearing arrows, or skirmish groups protecting the flanks will often use a small buckler to go alongside their weapon of choice.
 
==Marcher household==
Any Marcher who owns farmland is a member of a [[Marcher_Household|household]], albeit perhaps a household of one, and any Marcher Household can declare a '''livery'''. Members of the household tend to wear the livery colours in some way. Stewards of a household that allies to a more powerful household usually retain their own livery, or combine it with the new households’ colours in some way. Households often wear matching [[livery coat|livery jackets]], although simple [[sash]]es or [[badge]]s are also effective ways of showing affiliation. Many households own a banner showing their livery.

{{CaptionedImage|file=Kings Stoke Fighters.jpg|width=600|Marcher Household arrayed for battle.|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Balston Fighting.jpg|width=600|House Balston|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarcherFamily.jpg|width=600|In livery from a young age|height=200|align=left}}
 
==Yeomen==
Poor [[Yeoman of the Marches|Yeomen]] may wear just a plain coloured jack or padded gambeson as their only armour.
Wealthier Yeomen usually have livery coats in their Household colours and mail or plate over the
top if they have it.
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen1.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen2.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen3.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Erwillian Mann.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=CullachMarching.jpg|width=500|height=250}}

==Stewards==
The head of a household, a [[steward]], may wear richer colours, but most likely in home grown wool not rarer silk. Wealthy Marchers are often seen in full harness of plate in battle.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Henry Talbot in Plate.jpg|title=Film: Ironclad|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards2.jpg|title=Film: Ironclad|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards3.jpg|title=Film: Snow White and the Huntsman|width=187|height=250}}

==Beaters==
[[The_Marches_military_concerns#Beaters|Beaters]] are skilled trackers and gamekeepers. They watch the borders of the Marches. They are inspired by the classic British archers of the period mixed with the Rangers of Ithilien from Lord of the Rings.
Beaters usually wear lighter armour, either just a padded or leather jack or else a leather tunic like the ones worn by the Rangers in Lord of the Rings.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Beater Andrew Daybell.jpg|caption=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|title=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|width=350|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Morgan Archer.jpg|title=Morgan Archer, House Talbot. Beater, hunter and game keeper.|caption=Morgan Archer (Judith Ressler)|width=220|height=200}}
== Aldermen and Townsfolk==
Many [[The Marches economic interests|aldermen]] take great pride in their ceremonial chains of office, sometimes referred to as "Chains of Prosperity". Some go so far as to commission them as magical items, such as an [[Alderman's Edge]].
{{CaptionedImage|file=Friar Alan.jpg|width=187|height=250|align=right}}
==Monks and Friars==
Both male and female [[The Marches religious beliefs|monks and friars]] wear traditional plain [[monk's habit]] either
in dark colours, or white with a dark [[scapular]].
A simple brown [[cassock]] works well but it might also be seen in black or
grey. A more complex arrangement with dark scapular over white undergarments is also a popular choice.

A [[chasuble]] or [[cowl]] is often worn over the habit, in particular during the cold seasons.
 
==Landskeepers==
Some [[The Marches magical traditions#Landskeepers|landskeepers]] wear [[robe]]s, similar to the monk, but a [[jerkin]], shirt and hose, with rolled-up sleeves is just as good an alternative. A landskeeper is well used to hard work in the fields and their look reflects that.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Landkeeper.jpg|width=402|height=200}}

==Children's costumes==
[[The Marches children|Children in the Marches]] can be dressed in scaled down versions of their parent's clothes. For toddlers and babies, traditional [[smock]]s, or simple t-[[tunic]]s and [[drawstring trousers]] are simple and easy to pull-on garments, that can be made in linen or cotton for easy washing! These types of clothes also have plenty of flexibility in terms of size, meaning you'll get more than one year's use out of them. Small [[coif]]s are great for keeping the sun off a baby's head and simple [[Hat#Straw Hat|straw hats]] can also be used to stop children burning. Older children can either have their own costumes, or be given adult clothes which are then rolled up and belted to fit - the practical Marchers are unlikely to waste any clothing and hand me downs are a cheap (in and out of character!) way to clothe children.

General tips for costume for children:
* Robes that stop at knee - mid-calf will be less of a trip hazard
* Headgear that can be very simply retied is great
* Avoiding things that can pull around the neck is wise (strings on cloaks/hats on cords/ tabards that don't secure under the arms
* Wider neck holes, sleeves and armholes will help with getting costume on and off, and leave room for growth

*[http://www.mathildegirlgenius.com/Documentation/KASF2006/InfantOutfit.pdf Information on clothes and swaddling for babies]
*[http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mae1215.html Patterns for Medieval children's clothes]
*[http://www.fabric-dreams.co.uk/Children/Burda-Schnitt-Muster-historisches-Kleid-Gr-98-128::8480.html Childrens' dresses]
*[http://www.fabric-dreams.co.uk/Carneval-Costumes/Burda-Schnitt-Muster-Karnevalskostuem-Musketier-104-140::8481.html Childrens' shirt, tunic and hood]
*[http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m5499-products-8715.php?page_id=915 'Mother and Daughter' dresses]
*[http://www.revivalclothing.com/medievalchildrensclothing.aspx Revival Clothing's Premade items for children]
*[http://www.gambeson.pl/medieval-on-line-shop/medieval-clothing-for-kids.html Gambeson's Premade items for children]
{{CaptionedImage|file=CM-130726-0034.jpg|width=187|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MG0690.jpg|width=400|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesChild4.jpg|width=187|height=200|caption=Costume by [http://www.cloakedanddaggered.com/menu/childrenswear/ Cloak'd and Dagger'd]}}

==10 Quick Costuming Tips==
* Charity shop fabric rails are a great source of wool blankets that can be made into staples of Marcher costume.
* With the popularity of medieval re-enactment, its very easy to buy off the peg [[hose]], [[doublet]]s, [[cotehardie]] and other key pieces. 12th–15th century kit is preferable to Tudor kit when choosing on-line or at kit fairs.
* Instead of actual [[hose]], any reasonably close fitting trousers in earthy or dark colours will look good for practical Marches characters.
* Households and families are important in the Marches - displaying the house livery can be done cheaply through simple [[sash]]es or [[badge]]s or if you fancy something a bit clearer, follow the guides for [[livery coat]]s.
* There are a range of options for practical footwear - from bespoke re-enactment shoes to simple desert boots. Any soft leather or suede with simple ties, laces or side buckles will look good.
* There is no need to worried about all that itchy wool and linen: [[Shirt]]s and [[shift]]s are both are simple, loose and easily available in cotton and make a good part of the Marchers look. And whilst re-enactment markets are very useful for Marcher supplies, we're not looking for historical accuracy here – There's no expectation for you to be in itchy underwear!
* For those playing a rich Marcher, it could be easy to make choices that make the costume seem very similar to neighbouring Dawn. By sticking to plain fabrics (wool, maybe velvet, but not silks or brocades) and choosing rich autumnal colours rather than bright summery ones confusion can be avoided.
* Marcher beaters who are likely to wear [[light leather armour]] can avoid being confused with Steinr and Navarr by staying away from furs and going for classic Marcher accessories. [[Bollock pouch]]es are one example that are really simple to make and easily available to buy.
* Want to indicate low status? Try adding an [[apron]] or [[leather trousers]] or swap a doublet for a sleeveless [[jerkin]].
* Want to show off high status? Try doing so very discreetly, with a rich lining or carefully chosen buttons rather than ostentatious trims and decoration.

==Things you're unlikely to see==
* Don't expect 'bling' in the Marches, even the wealthy are likely to be subtle - with wealth displayed in linings and button detail, not slashed sleeves, full gathered fabrics, or rich embroidery or brocade.
* You won't find anyone worrying about hand stitching, whether that coat is too long for 1389 or what your underwear is made of. The Marches is a historically inspired culture, not a historically accurate one.
* There are no modesty guidelines in the Marches and gender roles don't follow the historical pattern - long skirts and laced dresses are a choice made by some not an expectation of all.

=Costume Sources=
As the Marches draw on inspiration from Earth history, there are both vendors of appropriate items of costume and documents dealing with the costume styles easily available for Marcher players looking for more details.

===Historical Women's Wear Reference Material===
As with military clothes, dresses can reflect household livery. 'Parti-coloured' (or split coloured) dresses look very effective.
[http://www.laracorsets.com/15th_Cen_Womens_clothing.htm Lara Corset's] website gives an excellent overview of all aspects of women's wardrobes in the late 1400s,

[http://matildalazouche.livejournal.com/ Matilda la Zouche's] wardrobe follows the reconstruction of several historically accurate outfits for a broad medieval period.

Some general pattern books are available which cover all types of women's wear:
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=240 Medieval Women's dress]
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=227 High medieval women's dress]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Medieval-Tailors-Assistant-1200-1500/dp/0896762394/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1341860986&sr=8-2 The Medieval Tailor’s Assistant]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/Make-Your-Own-Medieval-Clothing/dp/393892215X/ref=pd_sim_sbs_b_1 Make Your Own Medieval Clothing for women].
* [http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mag1314.html Nehelenia Patterns - Multi part pattern for men and women]

===Historical Men's Wear Reference Material===
{{CaptionedImage|file=ttunic.jpg|width=300|align=right|caption=T-tunic}}
Some general pattern books are available which cover all types of men's wear:
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=234 High Medieval men's dress]
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=229 Medieval men's dress]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Medieval-Tailors-Assistant-1200-1500/dp/0896762394/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1341860986&sr=8-2 The Medieval Tailor’s Assistant]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/Make-Your-Own-Medieval-Clothing/dp/3938922141/ref=pd_sim_sbs_b_2 Make Your Own Medieval Clothing for Men]
* [http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mag1314.html Nehelenia Patterns - Multi part pattern for men and women]

===Reenactment Sources===
[http://images.google.com/images?q=medieval+reenactment Medieval re-enactment], [http://images.google.com/images?q=wars+of+the+roses+reenactment Wars of the roses] and [http://images.google.com/images?q=13th+century+reenactment 13th], [http://images.google.com/images?q=14th+century+reenactment 14th] or [http://images.google.com/images?q=15th+century+reenactment 15th] Century re-enactment will all provide helpful inspiration.

===Guides to Livery===
*[http://www.historiclife.com/pdf/KASF2008/15thCenturyLivery.pdf 15th Century Livery]
*[http://www.bucks-retinue.org.uk/content/view/177/243/ Livery coats]
*[http://www.vexillia.ltd.uk/common/shop_books.html#5 Standards, Badges & Livery Colours of the Wars of the Roses], Pat McGill & Jonathan Jones, Freezywater Publications
*[http://www.vexillia.ltd.uk/common/shop_books.html#5 Heraldic Banners of the Wars of the Roses] (3 vols), Pat McGill & Thomas Coveney, Frezywater Publications.
*[http://www.medievalartandwoodcraft.com Medieval Art and Woodcraft] make livery badges, banners and flags, signage, medical charts etc. to order

===Books===
* The Medieval Soldier: 15th Century Campaign Life Recreated in Colour Photographs, Gerry Embleton & John Howe,
* English Medieval Knight 1400-1500, Christopher Gravett, Osprey Publishing
* The Great Warbow, Matthew Strickland & Robert Hardy, Sutton Publishing – probably the best accessible book you can get on the subject.
* Arms and Armour of the Medieval Knight, David Edge & John Miles Paddock, Saturn Books

===Costume sellers===
*[https://www.facebook.com/themidgardseamstress The Midgard Seamstress] Custom made UK LARP and Re-enactment costumes
*[http://armstreet.com/ Arm Street] Medieval and Fantasy clothing from Russia (English language website)
*[http://www.cloakedanddaggered.com Cloak’d and Dagger’d]
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/customcostumecompany/ Custom Costume Company] Bespoke designs for re-enactors and roleplayers
*[http://historicenterprises.com Historic Enterprises]American based costume company. Trades at TORM
*[http://medievaldresscompany.com/index.htm Medieval Dress Company] Clothing and leatherwork
*[http://www.matuls.pl/index.php?IDP=1&Lng=en Matuls] Clothing, armour tents and camp accessories from Poland (English language website)
*[http://www.revivalclothing.com/ Revival Clothing]
*[http://www.sallygreen.co.uk Sally Green]
*[http://www.sew-mill.com Sew-mill]

===Armourers===
*https://www.facebook.com/ArmourServices
*https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Medieval-Rats/147041485362649
*http://www.armabohemia.cz/Novestr/homeA.htm
*http://www.armorymarek.com/
*http://www.bestarmour.com/
*http://www.capapie.co.uk/
*http://www.dtok.fsnet.co.uk/
*http://www.lancasters-armourie.co.uk/
*http://www.stgeorgearmouryshop.co.uk/index2.html
*http://www.whiteroseapparel.com/
*http://www.whiterosearmoury.com/
*[http://www.darkbladeuk.co.uk/EMPIRE-LARP/Marches/c-1-114-121/ Darkblade] studded leather armour
* [https://www.facebook.com/TotallyLeathered Totally Leathered] [[Totally Leathered]] provides custom tooled leatherwork & bespoke armour.
* [[Idiom Productions]] Costume and Props Workshop creates custom hand-tooled leather armour, clothing and LRP weapons
* [[Evenlode Studios]] - High quality leather armour, costume and props handmade

===Leather items including shoes===
*[http://www.philfraser.com/index.htm Phil Fraser]
*[http://www.re-enactment-shoes.co.uk/ Re-enactment shoes ]
*[http://www.np-historicalshoes.com/home.php?lang=en Historical Shoes]
*[http://www.historische-schuhe.de/epages/61580448.sf/en_GB/?ViewObjectID=102641CP-Schule Historic Shoes] German company (English language website)
*[http://ravenswoodleather.com/index.php?p=home Ravenswood Leather Items] America site. Non-historical leather items.

===Fur and traditional materials===
*[http://www.houseofdeclifford.co.uk/ House of de Clifford] Ethically sourced furs of all kinds
*[http://www.candles-for-all-ages.com/ Candles for All Ages] Tallow and Beeswax Candles
*Herts Fabrics
*Bernie the Bolt

===Camping accessories and other bits===
*[http://www.sallypointer.com/shop/ Sally Pointer] Hats and bits and bobs
*[http://www.smoke-fire.com/ Smoke and Fire] American company.
*[http://www.medieval-market.com/ Medieval Market] German company (English language website) – Clothing, furniture, and other items
*[http://medievaldresscompany.com/index.htm Medieval Dress Company] Clothing and leatherwork
*[http://www.matuls.pl/index.php?IDP=1&Lng=en Matuls] Clothing, armour tents and camp accessories from Poland (English language website)
*[http://www.reenactors-shop.de/ Reenactors Shop] German company (English language website) Lots of bits and bobs, including camping accessories.
*[http://www.medievaldesign.com/english.asp Medieval design] 1st -16th century clothing, furniture and other historical products.

===Flags, banners and livery badges===
*[http://www.medievalartandwoodcraft.com Medieval Art and Woodcraft] Historical and historically inspired banners, flags and livery badges

===Pewter and cast goods===
*[http://www.castsfromthepast.co.uk/main.htm Casts from the Past] Pewter items including livery badges and some household items
*[https://www.quietpress.com/ The Quiet Press] Historical buckles, brooches and other ornamental metalwork
*[http://www.billyandcharlie.com/ Billy and Charlie's Finest Quality Pewter Goods] American company. Pewter badges and other accessories.
*[http://www.hr-replikate.de/englisch/index.htm HR-Replikate] German company. Jewellery based on archeological finds (English language website)
*[http://www.lionheartreplicas.co.uk/ Lionheart Replicas] Pewterwear
*[http://www.pewterreplicas.co.uk/ Pewter Replicas] Pewter badges, household items and livery collars

===Wooden items===
*[http://www.douggiethewood.co.uk/ Douggie the Wood] Wooden Furniture
*[http://www.robin-wood.co.uk/index.htm Robin Wood] Authentic wood turned historical items
*[http://www.vicus.org.uk/woodturner/index.htm Paul Atkin] Bowls and other hand turned items

===Tents===
*[https://www.canvastentshop.co.uk/default.htm Canvas Tents]

[[Category:The Marches]]
[[Category:Nations]]

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-25T21:25:10Z

Gereon: Add mage armour example, clean whitespace

{{CaptionedImage|file=Wassail with Scarecrow.jpg|caption=[[Wassail]], the harvest festival|width=300|align=left}}
==Overview==
[[The Marches]] draws strongly on English history from the 12th century through to the War of the Roses for costume, weaponry and armour.

The costume of the Marches has a 'solidity' to it, a worn, lived-in look that contrasts with its neighbour [[Dawn]]'s high romance, gleaming plate and vivid hues. The Marches is Kenneth Brannagh’s Henry V rather than Laurence Olivier’s.

<ic style="clear:both">
We strive to treat the mud with care
with lots of muck and tilling. 
And it repays us thousandfold:
That’s why its so fulfilling. 
And when the day is over,
we’ll drink a glass or more, 
to Marcher mud - its in our blood, ingrained in every pore. 
We’re down to earth,
down and dirty:
Digging for victory.
</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Shanks_Awning.jpg|width=300|align=left}}
==Breakdown==
===Feel===
Gritty, solid, practical, traditional, mud, blood, green fields, rural, iron.
===Influences===
Wars of the Roses England, Rangers of Ithilien (Beaters), Cadfael (Monks and Landskeepers).
{{CaptionedImage|file=Marches_colour_scheme.png|width=400|height=100|align=right}}
===Materials===
Wool, calico, linen, leather.
===Colours===
Plain flat colours, mostly the soft colours of natural dyes or unbleached
cloth. The palette is autumnal suggesting natural dull blues, greys, browns/
rusts, mustards and greens, dull reds etc. especially at the lower end of
the social scale. Wealthier Marchers may use deeper, brighter shades.
===Icons===
* '''Livery''' Members of a household generally wear their livery in some way – as a [[livery coat]], [[sash]] or [[pewter badge]].
* '''Poppets''' and other symbols of the land play an important role in [[the Marches hearth magic]]. Many Marchers, all children and every home in the Marches have at least one poppet.
* '''Apples'' The symbol the apple, and fruit and seed in general, is a common representation of the soul and the cycle of rebirth.
* '''Crow''' and '''Rat''' are both images of ill-omen and bad luck.
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesHats.jpg|width=300|align=right}}
==Clothing==
Marchers favour plain clothes, [[tunic]]s, simple [[hood]]s, hose and [[shirt]]s. Wealthier characters might wear finer [[robe]]s, cotehardies or a simple doublet, but even then plain wool or heavy linen will be more appropriate than fancy patterns or embroidery.
Medieval re-enactments are a great source of inspiration for the look and feel of the Marches territories - although unlike history, its worth noting that Marches society is gender neutral.

Marcher leg wear is practical and slim fitting. Close fitting trousers are practical and easy to come by or make.
[[Hose]], either joined or split, are worn with [[braies]] and a long shirt. An extremely simple untailored cut for shirts fits the Marches very well: Full in the body and sleeve, possibly gathered at neck and wrist.

[[Doublet]]s are popular in the Marches, a snug-fitting buttoned jacket that is shaped and fitted to the body. It can be worn over the shirt or under another layer of clothing. They tend to be short and simple – fancy slash work doesn't really fit the Marchers practical approach.

A woollen or heavy linen overdress
such as a [[kirtle]] or [[cotehardie]] over a shirt or [[shift]]
is be a good alternative to shirts and hose.
The look is long, lean and smooth and laced to fit.
Back lacing shows higher status and gives a better line. Side lacing is more common.
It would be rare to see a gathered skirt (common to Tudor kirtles) in the Marches.

Headwear is frequently worn, from a simple cap or [[coif]], to [[hat]]s or something like a [[hood]] with liripipe or a [[chaperon]].

Marchers have no pockets, so a pouch is invaluable – [[bollock pouch|bollock]] or [[kidney pouch]]es
or leather bags are perfect. Belts are often very long, wrapped round,
looped at the front and left to dangle.

The [[#Monks and Friars|typical clothing]] of both male and femals [[The_Marches_religious_beliefs|monks and friars]] consists of a [[#Monks and Friars|traditional plain monk's habit]].

{{CaptionedImage|file=Marcher Camp.jpg|title=The hearth is the core of a Marcher home, even in Anvil.|width=250|height=250|align=right}}
==Camps==

Gates and doors are traditionally decorated with woven bundles of grain on either side, the respect shown to the land prevents evil doers from entering. The hearth is where food taken from the land is prepared. It should always be kept clean and ideally be decorated with fresh cut flowers to prevent food cooked there causing a poison of the blood. Poor March Folk or those on campaign will make do with bundles of grass or common meadow flowers.
 
{{CaptionedImage|file=Marchers_through_Sentinel_Gate.jpg|title=The Marches march out through the sentinel gate|width=800|height=400|align=left}}
==Weaponry==
The classic Marcher fighting unit is a block of assorted polearms recruited from the yeomanry. Prosperous marchers often wear plate and wield great swords, poleaxes or hammers, shattering gaps open for the billfolk to exploit.

Bows, in particular longbows, are also a common sight among the Marchers units on the battlefield.
===Armour===
{{CaptionedImage|file=Rosamund_Mage_Armour.jpg|title=Mage armour protects the battle mage|width=200|height=200|align=right}}
Padded [[gambeson]]s or [[leather jack]]s are common for the poor, with a [[harness of plate]] for richer individuals. [[Brigandine]]s are an intermediate option. Households often wear matching [[livery coat]]s, although simple [[sash]]es or badges are also used to denote affiliation. [[Jack chain]]s over a gambeson are ideal for a Marcher yeoman.

[[Weapons & Armour#Mage Armour|Mage armour]] is often from similar materials - fabric, leather and possibly pieces of chain mail - in both natural and household colours, but is more likely to be adorned and decorated with elements of no immediately obvious use.
===Weapons===
Bows are common. In hand-to-hand combat Marchers favour bills and other pole-arms. Two handed swords are common for richer characters in heavier armour, as well as warhammers, maces or poleaxes. Any historical weapons from the Hundred Years War and the War of the Roses are typical: poleaxes, bills and other polearms are iconic; warhammers, bollock daggers, axes, falchions, mauls, and improvised weapons based on farm equipment are all carried by some.
====Shields====
Large shields are much less common than in other nations; shield-walls are seen as a tactic best left behind in Dawn. Marchers who have a good reason not to use a pole-arm or a great sword, such as martial Landskeepers fearing arrows, or skirmish groups protecting the flanks will often use a small buckler to go alongside their weapon of choice.
 
==Marcher household==
Any Marcher who owns farmland is a member of a [[Marcher_Household|household]], albeit perhaps a household of one, and any Marcher Household can declare a '''livery'''. Members of the household tend to wear the livery colours in some way. Stewards of a household that allies to a more powerful household usually retain their own livery, or combine it with the new households’ colours in some way. Households often wear matching [[livery coat|livery jackets]], although simple [[sash]]es or [[badge]]s are also effective ways of showing affiliation. Many households own a banner showing their livery.

{{CaptionedImage|file=Kings Stoke Fighters.jpg|width=600|Marcher Household arrayed for battle.|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Balston Fighting.jpg|width=600|House Balston|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarcherFamily.jpg|width=600|In livery from a young age|height=200|align=left}}
 
==Yeomen==
Poor [[Yeoman of the Marches|Yeomen]] may wear just a plain coloured jack or padded gambeson as their only armour.
Wealthier Yeomen usually have livery coats in their Household colours and mail or plate over the
top if they have it.
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen1.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen2.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen3.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Erwillian Mann.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=CullachMarching.jpg|width=500|height=250}}

==Stewards==
The head of a household, a [[steward]], may wear richer colours, but most likely in home grown wool not rarer silk. Wealthy Marchers are often seen in full harness of plate in battle.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Henry Talbot in Plate.jpg|title=Film: Ironclad|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards2.jpg|title=Film: Ironclad|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards3.jpg|title=Film: Snow White and the Huntsman|width=187|height=250}}

==Beaters==
[[The_Marches_military_concerns#Beaters|Beaters]] are skilled trackers and gamekeepers. They watch the borders of the Marches. They are inspired by the classic British archers of the period mixed with the Rangers of Ithilien from Lord of the Rings.
Beaters usually wear lighter armour, either just a padded or leather jack or else a leather tunic like the ones worn by the Rangers in Lord of the Rings.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Beater Andrew Daybell.jpg|caption=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|title=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|width=350|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Morgan Archer.jpg|title=Morgan Archer, House Talbot. Beater, hunter and game keeper.|caption=Morgan Archer (Judith Ressler)|width=220|height=200}}
== Aldermen and Townsfolk==
Many [[The Marches economic interests|aldermen]] take great pride in their ceremonial chains of office, sometimes referred to as "Chains of Prosperity". Some go so far as to commission them as magical items, such as an [[Alderman's Edge]].
{{CaptionedImage|file=Friar Alan.jpg|width=187|height=250|align=right}}
==Monks and Friars==
Both male and female [[The Marches religious beliefs|monks and friars]] wear traditional plain [[monk's habit]] either
in dark colours, or white with a dark [[scapular]].
A simple brown [[cassock]] works well but it might also be seen in black or
grey. A more complex arrangement with dark scapular over white undergarments is also a popular choice.

A [[chasuble]] or [[cowl]] is often worn over the habit, in particular during the cold seasons.
 
==Landskeepers==
Some [[The Marches magical traditions#Landskeepers|landskeepers]] wear [[robe]]s, similar to the monk, but a [[jerkin]], shirt and hose, with rolled-up sleeves is just as good an alternative. A landskeeper is well used to hard work in the fields and their look reflects that.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Landkeeper.jpg|width=402|height=200}}

==Children's costumes==
[[The Marches children|Children in the Marches]] can be dressed in scaled down versions of their parent's clothes. For toddlers and babies, traditional [[smock]]s, or simple t-[[tunic]]s and [[drawstring trousers]] are simple and easy to pull-on garments, that can be made in linen or cotton for easy washing! These types of clothes also have plenty of flexibility in terms of size, meaning you'll get more than one year's use out of them. Small [[coif]]s are great for keeping the sun off a baby's head and simple [[Hat#Straw Hat|straw hats]] can also be used to stop children burning. Older children can either have their own costumes, or be given adult clothes which are then rolled up and belted to fit - the practical Marchers are unlikely to waste any clothing and hand me downs are a cheap (in and out of character!) way to clothe children.

General tips for costume for children:
* Robes that stop at knee - mid-calf will be less of a trip hazard
* Headgear that can be very simply retied is great
* Avoiding things that can pull around the neck is wise (strings on cloaks/hats on cords/ tabards that don't secure under the arms
* Wider neck holes, sleeves and armholes will help with getting costume on and off, and leave room for growth

*[http://www.mathildegirlgenius.com/Documentation/KASF2006/InfantOutfit.pdf Information on clothes and swaddling for babies]
*[http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mae1215.html Patterns for Medieval children's clothes]
*[http://www.fabric-dreams.co.uk/Children/Burda-Schnitt-Muster-historisches-Kleid-Gr-98-128::8480.html Childrens' dresses]
*[http://www.fabric-dreams.co.uk/Carneval-Costumes/Burda-Schnitt-Muster-Karnevalskostuem-Musketier-104-140::8481.html Childrens' shirt, tunic and hood]
*[http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m5499-products-8715.php?page_id=915 'Mother and Daughter' dresses]
*[http://www.revivalclothing.com/medievalchildrensclothing.aspx Revival Clothing's Premade items for children]
*[http://www.gambeson.pl/medieval-on-line-shop/medieval-clothing-for-kids.html Gambeson's Premade items for children]
{{CaptionedImage|file=CM-130726-0034.jpg|width=187|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MG0690.jpg|width=400|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesChild4.jpg|width=187|height=200|caption=Costume by [http://www.cloakedanddaggered.com/menu/childrenswear/ Cloak'd and Dagger'd]}}

==10 Quick Costuming Tips==
* Charity shop fabric rails are a great source of wool blankets that can be made into staples of Marcher costume.
* With the popularity of medieval re-enactment, its very easy to buy off the peg [[hose]], [[doublet]]s, [[cotehardie]] and other key pieces. 12th–15th century kit is preferable to Tudor kit when choosing on-line or at kit fairs.
* Instead of actual [[hose]], any reasonably close fitting trousers in earthy or dark colours will look good for practical Marches characters.
* Households and families are important in the Marches - displaying the house livery can be done cheaply through simple [[sash]]es or [[badge]]s or if you fancy something a bit clearer, follow the guides for [[livery coat]]s.
* There are a range of options for practical footwear - from bespoke re-enactment shoes to simple desert boots. Any soft leather or suede with simple ties, laces or side buckles will look good.
* There is no need to worried about all that itchy wool and linen: [[Shirt]]s and [[shift]]s are both are simple, loose and easily available in cotton and make a good part of the Marchers look. And whilst re-enactment markets are very useful for Marcher supplies, we're not looking for historical accuracy here – There's no expectation for you to be in itchy underwear!
* For those playing a rich Marcher, it could be easy to make choices that make the costume seem very similar to neighbouring Dawn. By sticking to plain fabrics (wool, maybe velvet, but not silks or brocades) and choosing rich autumnal colours rather than bright summery ones confusion can be avoided.
* Marcher beaters who are likely to wear [[light leather armour]] can avoid being confused with Steinr and Navarr by staying away from furs and going for classic Marcher accessories. [[Bollock pouch]]es are one example that are really simple to make and easily available to buy.
* Want to indicate low status? Try adding an [[apron]] or [[leather trousers]] or swap a doublet for a sleeveless [[jerkin]].
* Want to show off high status? Try doing so very discreetly, with a rich lining or carefully chosen buttons rather than ostentatious trims and decoration.

==Things you're unlikely to see==
* Don't expect 'bling' in the Marches, even the wealthy are likely to be subtle - with wealth displayed in linings and button detail, not slashed sleeves, full gathered fabrics, or rich embroidery or brocade.
* You won't find anyone worrying about hand stitching, whether that coat is too long for 1389 or what your underwear is made of. The Marches is a historically inspired culture, not a historically accurate one.
* There are no modesty guidelines in the Marches and gender roles don't follow the historical pattern - long skirts and laced dresses are a choice made by some not an expectation of all.

=Costume Sources=
As the Marches draw on inspiration from Earth history, there are both vendors of appropriate items of costume and documents dealing with the costume styles easily available for Marcher players looking for more details.

===Historical Women's Wear Reference Material===
As with military clothes, dresses can reflect household livery. 'Parti-coloured' (or split coloured) dresses look very effective.
[http://www.laracorsets.com/15th_Cen_Womens_clothing.htm Lara Corset's] website gives an excellent overview of all aspects of women's wardrobes in the late 1400s,

[http://matildalazouche.livejournal.com/ Matilda la Zouche's] wardrobe follows the reconstruction of several historically accurate outfits for a broad medieval period.

Some general pattern books are available which cover all types of women's wear:
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=240 Medieval Women's dress]
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=227 High medieval women's dress]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Medieval-Tailors-Assistant-1200-1500/dp/0896762394/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1341860986&sr=8-2 The Medieval Tailor’s Assistant]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/Make-Your-Own-Medieval-Clothing/dp/393892215X/ref=pd_sim_sbs_b_1 Make Your Own Medieval Clothing for women].
* [http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mag1314.html Nehelenia Patterns - Multi part pattern for men and women]

===Historical Men's Wear Reference Material===
{{CaptionedImage|file=ttunic.jpg|width=300|align=right|caption=T-tunic}}
Some general pattern books are available which cover all types of men's wear:
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=234 High Medieval men's dress]
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=229 Medieval men's dress]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Medieval-Tailors-Assistant-1200-1500/dp/0896762394/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1341860986&sr=8-2 The Medieval Tailor’s Assistant]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/Make-Your-Own-Medieval-Clothing/dp/3938922141/ref=pd_sim_sbs_b_2 Make Your Own Medieval Clothing for Men]
* [http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mag1314.html Nehelenia Patterns - Multi part pattern for men and women]

===Reenactment Sources===
[http://images.google.com/images?q=medieval+reenactment Medieval re-enactment], [http://images.google.com/images?q=wars+of+the+roses+reenactment Wars of the roses] and [http://images.google.com/images?q=13th+century+reenactment 13th], [http://images.google.com/images?q=14th+century+reenactment 14th] or [http://images.google.com/images?q=15th+century+reenactment 15th] Century re-enactment will all provide helpful inspiration.

===Guides to Livery===
*[http://www.historiclife.com/pdf/KASF2008/15thCenturyLivery.pdf 15th Century Livery]
*[http://www.bucks-retinue.org.uk/content/view/177/243/ Livery coats]
*[http://www.vexillia.ltd.uk/common/shop_books.html#5 Standards, Badges & Livery Colours of the Wars of the Roses], Pat McGill & Jonathan Jones, Freezywater Publications
*[http://www.vexillia.ltd.uk/common/shop_books.html#5 Heraldic Banners of the Wars of the Roses] (3 vols), Pat McGill & Thomas Coveney, Frezywater Publications.
*[http://www.medievalartandwoodcraft.com Medieval Art and Woodcraft] make livery badges, banners and flags, signage, medical charts etc. to order

===Books===
* The Medieval Soldier: 15th Century Campaign Life Recreated in Colour Photographs, Gerry Embleton & John Howe,
* English Medieval Knight 1400-1500, Christopher Gravett, Osprey Publishing
* The Great Warbow, Matthew Strickland & Robert Hardy, Sutton Publishing – probably the best accessible book you can get on the subject.
* Arms and Armour of the Medieval Knight, David Edge & John Miles Paddock, Saturn Books

===Costume sellers===
*[https://www.facebook.com/themidgardseamstress The Midgard Seamstress] Custom made UK LARP and Re-enactment costumes
*[http://armstreet.com/ Arm Street] Medieval and Fantasy clothing from Russia (English language website)
*[http://www.cloakedanddaggered.com Cloak’d and Dagger’d]
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/customcostumecompany/ Custom Costume Company] Bespoke designs for re-enactors and roleplayers
*[http://historicenterprises.com Historic Enterprises]American based costume company. Trades at TORM
*[http://medievaldresscompany.com/index.htm Medieval Dress Company] Clothing and leatherwork
*[http://www.matuls.pl/index.php?IDP=1&Lng=en Matuls] Clothing, armour tents and camp accessories from Poland (English language website)
*[http://www.revivalclothing.com/ Revival Clothing]
*[http://www.sallygreen.co.uk Sally Green]
*[http://www.sew-mill.com Sew-mill]

===Armourers===
*https://www.facebook.com/ArmourServices
*https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Medieval-Rats/147041485362649
*http://www.armabohemia.cz/Novestr/homeA.htm
*http://www.armorymarek.com/
*http://www.bestarmour.com/
*http://www.capapie.co.uk/
*http://www.dtok.fsnet.co.uk/
*http://www.lancasters-armourie.co.uk/
*http://www.stgeorgearmouryshop.co.uk/index2.html
*http://www.whiteroseapparel.com/
*http://www.whiterosearmoury.com/
*[http://www.darkbladeuk.co.uk/EMPIRE-LARP/Marches/c-1-114-121/ Darkblade] studded leather armour
* [https://www.facebook.com/TotallyLeathered Totally Leathered] [[Totally Leathered]] provides custom tooled leatherwork & bespoke armour.
* [[Idiom Productions]] Costume and Props Workshop creates custom hand-tooled leather armour, clothing and LRP weapons
* [[Evenlode Studios]] - High quality leather armour, costume and props handmade

===Leather items including shoes===
*[http://www.philfraser.com/index.htm Phil Fraser]
*[http://www.re-enactment-shoes.co.uk/ Re-enactment shoes ]
*[http://www.np-historicalshoes.com/home.php?lang=en Historical Shoes]
*[http://www.historische-schuhe.de/epages/61580448.sf/en_GB/?ViewObjectID=102641CP-Schule Historic Shoes] German company (English language website)
*[http://ravenswoodleather.com/index.php?p=home Ravenswood Leather Items] America site. Non-historical leather items.

===Fur and traditional materials===
*[http://www.houseofdeclifford.co.uk/ House of de Clifford] Ethically sourced furs of all kinds
*[http://www.candles-for-all-ages.com/ Candles for All Ages] Tallow and Beeswax Candles
*Herts Fabrics
*Bernie the Bolt

===Camping accessories and other bits===
*[http://www.sallypointer.com/shop/ Sally Pointer] Hats and bits and bobs
*[http://www.smoke-fire.com/ Smoke and Fire] American company.
*[http://www.medieval-market.com/ Medieval Market] German company (English language website) – Clothing, furniture, and other items
*[http://medievaldresscompany.com/index.htm Medieval Dress Company] Clothing and leatherwork
*[http://www.matuls.pl/index.php?IDP=1&Lng=en Matuls] Clothing, armour tents and camp accessories from Poland (English language website)
*[http://www.reenactors-shop.de/ Reenactors Shop] German company (English language website) Lots of bits and bobs, including camping accessories.
*[http://www.medievaldesign.com/english.asp Medieval design] 1st -16th century clothing, furniture and other historical products.

===Flags, banners and livery badges===
*[http://www.medievalartandwoodcraft.com Medieval Art and Woodcraft] Historical and historically inspired banners, flags and livery badges

===Pewter and cast goods===
*[http://www.castsfromthepast.co.uk/main.htm Casts from the Past] Pewter items including livery badges and some household items
*[https://www.quietpress.com/ The Quiet Press] Historical buckles, brooches and other ornamental metalwork
*[http://www.billyandcharlie.com/ Billy and Charlie's Finest Quality Pewter Goods] American company. Pewter badges and other accessories.
*[http://www.hr-replikate.de/englisch/index.htm HR-Replikate] German company. Jewellery based on archeological finds (English language website)
*[http://www.lionheartreplicas.co.uk/ Lionheart Replicas] Pewterwear
*[http://www.pewterreplicas.co.uk/ Pewter Replicas] Pewter badges, household items and livery collars

===Wooden items===
*[http://www.douggiethewood.co.uk/ Douggie the Wood] Wooden Furniture
*[http://www.robin-wood.co.uk/index.htm Robin Wood] Authentic wood turned historical items
*[http://www.vicus.org.uk/woodturner/index.htm Paul Atkin] Bowls and other hand turned items

===Tents===
*[https://www.canvastentshop.co.uk/default.htm Canvas Tents]

[[Category:The Marches]]
[[Category:Nations]]

File:Rosamund Mage Armour.jpg

2016-04-25T21:08:07Z

Gereon: Rosamund Holt (Olwen Lachowicz) in mage armour Winter Solstice 2016 {{Category:Photos:BethDooner}}

Rosamund Holt (Olwen Lachowicz) in mage armour 
Winter Solstice 2016 
{{Category:Photos:BethDooner}}

Mage Armour

2016-04-25T20:50:33Z

Gereon: Redirected page to Weapons & Armour#Mage Armour

#REDIRECT [[Weapons & Armour#Mage Armour]]

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-25T17:42:29Z

Gereon: Move float clears

{{CaptionedImage|file=Wassail with Scarecrow.jpg|caption=[[Wassail]], the harvest festival|width=300|align=left}}
==Overview==
[[The Marches]] draws strongly on English history from the 12th century through to the War of the Roses for costume, weaponry and armour.

The costume of the Marches has a 'solidity' to it, a worn, lived-in look that contrasts with its neighbour [[Dawn]]'s high romance, gleaming plate and vivid hues. The Marches is Kenneth Brannagh’s Henry V rather than Laurence Olivier’s.

<ic style="clear:both">
We strive to treat the mud with care
with lots of muck and tilling. 
And it repays us thousandfold:
That’s why its so fulfilling. 
And when the day is over,
we’ll drink a glass or more, 
to Marcher mud - its in our blood, ingrained in every pore. 
We’re down to earth,
down and dirty:
Digging for victory.
</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Shanks_Awning.jpg|width=300|align=left}}
==Breakdown==
===Feel===
Gritty, solid, practical, traditional, mud, blood, green fields, rural, iron.
===Influences===
Wars of the Roses England, Rangers of Ithilien (Beaters), Cadfael (Monks and Landskeepers).
===Materials===
Wool, calico, linen, leather.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Marches_colour_scheme.png|width=400|height=100|align=left}}
===Colours===
Plain flat colours, mostly the soft colours of natural dyes or unbleached
cloth. The palette is autumnal suggesting natural dull blues, greys, browns/
rusts, mustards and greens, dull reds etc. especially at the lower end of
the social scale. Wealthier Marchers may use deeper, brighter shades. 
===Icons===
* '''Livery''' Members of a household generally wear their livery in some way – as a [[livery coat]], [[sash]] or [[pewter badge]].
* '''Poppets''' and other symbols of the land play an important role in [[the Marches hearth magic]]. Many Marchers, all children and every home in the Marches have at least one poppet.
* '''Apples'' The symbol the apple, and fruit and seed in general, is a common representation of the soul and the cycle of rebirth.
* '''Crow''' and '''Rat''' are both images of ill-omen and bad luck.
 
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesHats.jpg|width=300|align=right}}
==Clothing==
Marchers favour plain clothes, [[tunic]]s, simple [[hood]]s, hose and [[shirt]]s. Wealthier characters might wear finer [[robe]]s, cotehardies or a simple doublet, but even then plain wool or heavy linen will be more appropriate than fancy patterns or embroidery.
Medieval re-enactments are a great source of inspiration for the look and feel of the Marches territories - although unlike history, its worth noting that Marches society is gender neutral.

Marcher leg wear is practical and slim fitting. Close fitting trousers are practical and easy to come by or make.
[[Hose]], either joined or split, are worn with [[braies]] and a long shirt. An extremely simple untailored cut for shirts fits the Marches very well: Full in the body and sleeve, possibly gathered at neck and wrist.

[[Doublet]]s are popular in the Marches, a snug-fitting buttoned jacket that is shaped and fitted to the body. It can be worn over the shirt or under another layer of clothing. They tend to be short and simple – fancy slash work doesn't really fit the Marchers practical approach.

A woollen or heavy linen overdress
such as a [[kirtle]] or [[cotehardie]] over a shirt or [[shift]]
is be a good alternative to shirts and hose.
The look is long, lean and smooth and laced to fit.
Back lacing shows higher status and gives a better line. Side lacing is more common.
It would be rare to see a gathered skirt (common to Tudor kirtles) in the Marches.

Headwear is frequently worn, from a simple cap or [[coif]], to [[hat]]s or something like a [[hood]] with liripipe or a [[chaperon]].

Marchers have no pockets, so a pouch is invaluable – [[bollock pouch|bollock]] or [[kidney pouch]]es
or leather bags are perfect. Belts are often very long, wrapped round,
looped at the front and left to dangle.

The [[#Monks and Friars|typical clothing]] of both male and femals [[The_Marches_religious_beliefs|monks and friars]] consists of a [[#Monks and Friars|traditional plain monk's habit]].


{{CaptionedImage|file=Marcher Camp.jpg|title=The hearth is the core of a Marcher home, even in Anvil.|width=400|height=400|align=right}}
==Camps==

Gates and doors are traditionally decorated with woven bundles of grain on either side, the respect shown to the land prevents evil doers from entering. The hearth is where food taken from the land is prepared. It should always be kept clean and ideally be decorated with fresh cut flowers to prevent food cooked there causing a poison of the blood. Poor March Folk or those on campaign will make do with bundles of grass or common meadow flowers.

{{CaptionedImage|file=Marchers_through_Sentinel_Gate.jpg|title=The Marches march out through the sentinel gate|width=800|height=400|align=left}}
==Weaponry==
The classic Marcher fighting unit is a block of assorted polearms recruited from the yeomanry. Prosperous marchers often wear plate and wield great swords, poleaxes or hammers, shattering gaps open for the billfolk to exploit.

Bows, in particular longbows, are also a common sight among the Marchers units on the battlefield.

===Armour===
Padded [[gambeson]]s or [[leather jack]]s are common for the poor, with a [[harness of plate]] for richer individuals. [[Brigandine]]s are an intermediate option. Households often wear matching [[livery coat]]s, although simple [[sash]]es or badges are also used to denote affiliation. [[Jack chain]]s over a gambeson are ideal for a Marcher yeoman.

===Weapons===
Bows are common. In hand-to-hand combat Marchers favour bills and other pole-arms. Two handed swords are common for richer characters in heavier armour, as well as warhammers, maces or poleaxes. Any historical weapons from the Hundred Years War and the War of the Roses are typical: poleaxes, bills and other polearms are iconic; warhammers, bollock daggers, axes, falchions, mauls, and improvised weapons based on farm equipment are all carried by some.

====Shields====
Large shields are much less common than in other nations; shield-walls are seen as a tactic best left behind in Dawn. Marchers who have a good reason not to use a pole-arm or a great sword, such as martial Landskeepers fearing arrows, or skirmish groups protecting the flanks will often use a small buckler to go alongside their weapon of choice.
 

==Marcher household==
Any Marcher who owns farmland is a member of a [[Marcher_Household|household]], albeit perhaps a household of one, and any Marcher Household can declare a '''livery'''. Members of the household tend to wear the livery colours in some way. Stewards of a household that allies to a more powerful household usually retain their own livery, or combine it with the new households’ colours in some way. Households often wear matching [[livery coat|livery jackets]], although simple [[sash]]es or [[badge]]s are also effective ways of showing affiliation.

{{CaptionedImage|file=Kings Stoke Fighters.jpg|width=600|Marcher Household arrayed for battle.|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Balston Fighting.jpg|width=600|House Balston|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarcherFamily.jpg|width=600|In livery from a young age|height=200|align=left}}
 

==Yeomen==
Poor [[Yeoman of the Marches|Yeomen]] may wear just a plain coloured jack or padded gambeson as their only armour.
Wealthier Yeomen usually have livery coats in their Household colours and mail or plate over the
top if they have it.
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen1.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen2.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen3.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Erwillian Mann.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=CullachMarching.jpg|width=500|height=250}}

==Stewards==
The head of a household, a [[steward]], may wear richer colours, but most likely in home grown wool not rarer silk. Wealthy Marchers are often seen in full harness of plate in battle.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Henry Talbot in Plate.jpg|title=Film: Ironclad|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards2.jpg|title=Film: Ironclad|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards3.jpg|title=Film: Snow White and the Huntsman|width=187|height=250}}

==Beaters==
[[The_Marches_military_concerns#Beaters|Beaters]] are skilled trackers and gamekeepers. They watch the borders of the Marches. They are inspired by the classic British archers of the period mixed with the Rangers of Ithilien from Lord of the Rings.
Beaters usually wear lighter armour, either just a padded or leather jack or else a leather tunic like the ones worn by the Rangers in Lord of the Rings.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Beater Andrew Daybell.jpg|caption=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|title=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|width=350|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Morgan Archer.jpg|title=Morgan Archer, House Talbot. Beater, hunter and game keeper.|caption=Morgan Archer (Judith Ressler)|width=220|height=200}}
== Aldermen and Townsfolk==
Many [[The Marches economic interests|aldermen]] take great pride in their ceremonial chains of office, sometimes referred to as "Chains of Prosperity". Some go so far as to commission them as magical items, such as an [[Alderman's Edge]].
{{CaptionedImage|file=Friar Alan.jpg|width=187|height=250|align=right}}
==Monks and Friars==
Both male and female [[The Marches religious beliefs|monks and friars]] wear traditional plain [[monk's habit]] either
in dark colours, or white with a dark [[scapular]].
A simple brown [[cassock]] works well but it might also be seen in black or
grey. A more complex arrangement with dark scapular over white undergarments is also a popular choice.

A [[chasuble]] or [[cowl]] is often worn over the habit, in particular during the cold seasons.
 
==Landskeepers==
Some [[The Marches magical traditions#Landskeepers|landskeepers]] wear [[robe]]s, similar to the monk, but a [[jerkin]], shirt and hose, with rolled-up sleeves is just as good an alternative. A landskeeper is well used to hard work in the fields and their look reflects that.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Landkeeper.jpg|width=402|height=200}}

==Children's costumes==
[[The Marches children|Children in the Marches]] can be dressed in scaled down versions of their parent's clothes. For toddlers and babies, traditional [[smock]]s, or simple t-[[tunic]]s and [[drawstring trousers]] are simple and easy to pull-on garments, that can be made in linen or cotton for easy washing! These types of clothes also have plenty of flexibility in terms of size, meaning you'll get more than one year's use out of them. Small [[coif]]s are great for keeping the sun off a baby's head and simple [[Hat#Straw Hat|straw hats]] can also be used to stop children burning. Older children can either have their own costumes, or be given adult clothes which are then rolled up and belted to fit - the practical Marchers are unlikely to waste any clothing and hand me downs are a cheap (in and out of character!) way to clothe children.

General tips for costume for children:
* Robes that stop at knee - mid-calf will be less of a trip hazard
* Headgear that can be very simply retied is great
* Avoiding things that can pull around the neck is wise (strings on cloaks/hats on cords/ tabards that don't secure under the arms
* Wider neck holes, sleeves and armholes will help with getting costume on and off, and leave room for growth

*[http://www.mathildegirlgenius.com/Documentation/KASF2006/InfantOutfit.pdf Information on clothes and swaddling for babies]
*[http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mae1215.html Patterns for Medieval children's clothes]
*[http://www.fabric-dreams.co.uk/Children/Burda-Schnitt-Muster-historisches-Kleid-Gr-98-128::8480.html Childrens' dresses]
*[http://www.fabric-dreams.co.uk/Carneval-Costumes/Burda-Schnitt-Muster-Karnevalskostuem-Musketier-104-140::8481.html Childrens' shirt, tunic and hood]
*[http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m5499-products-8715.php?page_id=915 'Mother and Daughter' dresses]
*[http://www.revivalclothing.com/medievalchildrensclothing.aspx Revival Clothing's Premade items for children]
*[http://www.gambeson.pl/medieval-on-line-shop/medieval-clothing-for-kids.html Gambeson's Premade items for children]
{{CaptionedImage|file=CM-130726-0034.jpg|width=187|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MG0690.jpg|width=400|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesChild4.jpg|width=187|height=200|caption=Costume by [http://www.cloakedanddaggered.com/menu/childrenswear/ Cloak'd and Dagger'd]}}

==10 Quick Costuming Tips==
* Charity shop fabric rails are a great source of wool blankets that can be made into staples of Marcher costume.
* With the popularity of medieval re-enactment, its very easy to buy off the peg [[hose]], [[doublet]]s, [[cotehardie]] and other key pieces. 12th–15th century kit is preferable to Tudor kit when choosing on-line or at kit fairs.
* Instead of actual [[hose]], any reasonably close fitting trousers in earthy or dark colours will look good for practical Marches characters.
* Households and families are important in the Marches - displaying the house livery can be done cheaply through simple [[sash]]es or [[badge]]s or if you fancy something a bit clearer, follow the guides for [[livery coat]]s.
* There are a range of options for practical footwear - from bespoke re-enactment shoes to simple desert boots. Any soft leather or suede with simple ties, laces or side buckles will look good.
* There is no need to worried about all that itchy wool and linen: [[Shirt]]s and [[shift]]s are both are simple, loose and easily available in cotton and make a good part of the Marchers look. And whilst re-enactment markets are very useful for Marcher supplies, we're not looking for historical accuracy here – There's no expectation for you to be in itchy underwear!
* For those playing a rich Marcher, it could be easy to make choices that make the costume seem very similar to neighbouring Dawn. By sticking to plain fabrics (wool, maybe velvet, but not silks or brocades) and choosing rich autumnal colours rather than bright summery ones confusion can be avoided.
* Marcher beaters who are likely to wear [[light leather armour]] can avoid being confused with Steinr and Navarr by staying away from furs and going for classic Marcher accessories. [[Bollock pouch]]es are one example that are really simple to make and easily available to buy.
* Want to indicate low status? Try adding an [[apron]] or [[leather trousers]] or swap a doublet for a sleeveless [[jerkin]].
* Want to show off high status? Try doing so very discreetly, with a rich lining or carefully chosen buttons rather than ostentatious trims and decoration.

==Things you're unlikely to see==
* Don't expect 'bling' in the Marches, even the wealthy are likely to be subtle - with wealth displayed in linings and button detail, not slashed sleeves, full gathered fabrics, or rich embroidery or brocade.
* You won't find anyone worrying about hand stitching, whether that coat is too long for 1389 or what your underwear is made of. The Marches is a historically inspired culture, not a historically accurate one.
* There are no modesty guidelines in the Marches and gender roles don't follow the historical pattern - long skirts and laced dresses are a choice made by some not an expectation of all.

=Costume Sources=
As the Marches draw on inspiration from Earth history, there are both vendors of appropriate items of costume and documents dealing with the costume styles easily available for Marcher players looking for more details.

===Historical Women's Wear Reference Material===
As with military clothes, dresses can reflect household livery. 'Parti-coloured' (or split coloured) dresses look very effective.
[http://www.laracorsets.com/15th_Cen_Womens_clothing.htm Lara Corset's] website gives an excellent overview of all aspects of women's wardrobes in the late 1400s,

[http://matildalazouche.livejournal.com/ Matilda la Zouche's] wardrobe follows the reconstruction of several historically accurate outfits for a broad medieval period.

Some general pattern books are available which cover all types of women's wear:
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=240 Medieval Women's dress]
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=227 High medieval women's dress]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Medieval-Tailors-Assistant-1200-1500/dp/0896762394/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1341860986&sr=8-2 The Medieval Tailor’s Assistant]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/Make-Your-Own-Medieval-Clothing/dp/393892215X/ref=pd_sim_sbs_b_1 Make Your Own Medieval Clothing for women].
* [http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mag1314.html Nehelenia Patterns - Multi part pattern for men and women]

===Historical Men's Wear Reference Material===
{{CaptionedImage|file=ttunic.jpg|width=300|align=right|caption=T-tunic}}
Some general pattern books are available which cover all types of men's wear:
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=234 High Medieval men's dress]
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=229 Medieval men's dress]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Medieval-Tailors-Assistant-1200-1500/dp/0896762394/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1341860986&sr=8-2 The Medieval Tailor’s Assistant]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/Make-Your-Own-Medieval-Clothing/dp/3938922141/ref=pd_sim_sbs_b_2 Make Your Own Medieval Clothing for Men]
* [http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mag1314.html Nehelenia Patterns - Multi part pattern for men and women]

===Reenactment Sources===
[http://images.google.com/images?q=medieval+reenactment Medieval re-enactment], [http://images.google.com/images?q=wars+of+the+roses+reenactment Wars of the roses] and [http://images.google.com/images?q=13th+century+reenactment 13th], [http://images.google.com/images?q=14th+century+reenactment 14th] or [http://images.google.com/images?q=15th+century+reenactment 15th] Century re-enactment will all provide helpful inspiration.

===Guides to Livery===
*[http://www.historiclife.com/pdf/KASF2008/15thCenturyLivery.pdf 15th Century Livery]
*[http://www.bucks-retinue.org.uk/content/view/177/243/ Livery coats]
*[http://www.vexillia.ltd.uk/common/shop_books.html#5 Standards, Badges & Livery Colours of the Wars of the Roses], Pat McGill & Jonathan Jones, Freezywater Publications
*[http://www.vexillia.ltd.uk/common/shop_books.html#5 Heraldic Banners of the Wars of the Roses] (3 vols), Pat McGill & Thomas Coveney, Frezywater Publications.
*[http://www.medievalartandwoodcraft.com Medieval Art and Woodcraft] make livery badges, banners and flags, signage, medical charts etc. to order

===Books===
* The Medieval Soldier: 15th Century Campaign Life Recreated in Colour Photographs, Gerry Embleton & John Howe,
* English Medieval Knight 1400-1500, Christopher Gravett, Osprey Publishing
* The Great Warbow, Matthew Strickland & Robert Hardy, Sutton Publishing – probably the best accessible book you can get on the subject.
* Arms and Armour of the Medieval Knight, David Edge & John Miles Paddock, Saturn Books

===Costume sellers===
*[https://www.facebook.com/themidgardseamstress The Midgard Seamstress] Custom made UK LARP and Re-enactment costumes
*[http://armstreet.com/ Arm Street] Medieval and Fantasy clothing from Russia (English language website)
*[http://www.cloakedanddaggered.com Cloak’d and Dagger’d]
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/customcostumecompany/ Custom Costume Company] Bespoke designs for re-enactors and roleplayers
*[http://historicenterprises.com Historic Enterprises]American based costume company. Trades at TORM
*[http://medievaldresscompany.com/index.htm Medieval Dress Company] Clothing and leatherwork
*[http://www.matuls.pl/index.php?IDP=1&Lng=en Matuls] Clothing, armour tents and camp accessories from Poland (English language website)
*[http://www.revivalclothing.com/ Revival Clothing]
*[http://www.sallygreen.co.uk Sally Green]
*[http://www.sew-mill.com Sew-mill]

===Armourers===
*https://www.facebook.com/ArmourServices
*https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Medieval-Rats/147041485362649
*http://www.armabohemia.cz/Novestr/homeA.htm
*http://www.armorymarek.com/
*http://www.bestarmour.com/
*http://www.capapie.co.uk/
*http://www.dtok.fsnet.co.uk/
*http://www.lancasters-armourie.co.uk/
*http://www.stgeorgearmouryshop.co.uk/index2.html
*http://www.whiteroseapparel.com/
*http://www.whiterosearmoury.com/
*[http://www.darkbladeuk.co.uk/EMPIRE-LARP/Marches/c-1-114-121/ Darkblade] studded leather armour
* [https://www.facebook.com/TotallyLeathered Totally Leathered] [[Totally Leathered]] provides custom tooled leatherwork & bespoke armour.
* [[Idiom Productions]] Costume and Props Workshop creates custom hand-tooled leather armour, clothing and LRP weapons
* [[Evenlode Studios]] - High quality leather armour, costume and props handmade

===Leather items including shoes===
*[http://www.philfraser.com/index.htm Phil Fraser]
*[http://www.re-enactment-shoes.co.uk/ Re-enactment shoes ]
*[http://www.np-historicalshoes.com/home.php?lang=en Historical Shoes]
*[http://www.historische-schuhe.de/epages/61580448.sf/en_GB/?ViewObjectID=102641CP-Schule Historic Shoes] German company (English language website)
*[http://ravenswoodleather.com/index.php?p=home Ravenswood Leather Items] America site. Non-historical leather items.

===Fur and traditional materials===
*[http://www.houseofdeclifford.co.uk/ House of de Clifford] Ethically sourced furs of all kinds
*[http://www.candles-for-all-ages.com/ Candles for All Ages] Tallow and Beeswax Candles
*Herts Fabrics
*Bernie the Bolt

===Camping accessories and other bits===
*[http://www.sallypointer.com/shop/ Sally Pointer] Hats and bits and bobs
*[http://www.smoke-fire.com/ Smoke and Fire] American company.
*[http://www.medieval-market.com/ Medieval Market] German company (English language website) – Clothing, furniture, and other items
*[http://medievaldresscompany.com/index.htm Medieval Dress Company] Clothing and leatherwork
*[http://www.matuls.pl/index.php?IDP=1&Lng=en Matuls] Clothing, armour tents and camp accessories from Poland (English language website)
*[http://www.reenactors-shop.de/ Reenactors Shop] German company (English language website) Lots of bits and bobs, including camping accessories.
*[http://www.medievaldesign.com/english.asp Medieval design] 1st -16th century clothing, furniture and other historical products.

===Flags, banners and livery badges===
*[http://www.medievalartandwoodcraft.com Medieval Art and Woodcraft] Historical and historically inspired banners, flags and livery badges

===Pewter and cast goods===
*[http://www.castsfromthepast.co.uk/main.htm Casts from the Past] Pewter items including livery badges and some household items
*[https://www.quietpress.com/ The Quiet Press] Historical buckles, brooches and other ornamental metalwork
*[http://www.billyandcharlie.com/ Billy and Charlie's Finest Quality Pewter Goods] American company. Pewter badges and other accessories.
*[http://www.hr-replikate.de/englisch/index.htm HR-Replikate] German company. Jewellery based on archeological finds (English language website)
*[http://www.lionheartreplicas.co.uk/ Lionheart Replicas] Pewterwear
*[http://www.pewterreplicas.co.uk/ Pewter Replicas] Pewter badges, household items and livery collars

===Wooden items===
*[http://www.douggiethewood.co.uk/ Douggie the Wood] Wooden Furniture
*[http://www.robin-wood.co.uk/index.htm Robin Wood] Authentic wood turned historical items
*[http://www.vicus.org.uk/woodturner/index.htm Paul Atkin] Bowls and other hand turned items

===Tents===
*[https://www.canvastentshop.co.uk/default.htm Canvas Tents]

[[Category:The Marches]]
[[Category:Nations]]

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-25T17:17:56Z

Gereon: Add “Camps” section

{{CaptionedImage|file=Wassail with Scarecrow.jpg|caption=[[Wassail]], the harvest festival|width=300|align=left}}
==Overview==
[[The Marches]] draws strongly on English history from the 12th century through to the War of the Roses for costume, weaponry and armour.

The costume of the Marches has a 'solidity' to it, a worn, lived-in look that contrasts with its neighbour [[Dawn]]'s high romance, gleaming plate and vivid hues. The Marches is Kenneth Brannagh’s Henry V rather than Laurence Olivier’s.

<ic style="clear:both">
We strive to treat the mud with care
with lots of muck and tilling. 
And it repays us thousandfold:
That’s why its so fulfilling. 
And when the day is over,
we’ll drink a glass or more, 
to Marcher mud - its in our blood, ingrained in every pore. 
We’re down to earth,
down and dirty:
Digging for victory.
</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Shanks_Awning.jpg|width=300|align=left}}
==Breakdown==
===Feel===
Gritty, solid, practical, traditional, mud, blood, green fields, rural, iron.
===Influences===
Wars of the Roses England, Rangers of Ithilien (Beaters), Cadfael (Monks and Landskeepers).
===Materials===
Wool, calico, linen, leather.
 
{{CaptionedImage|file=Marches_colour_scheme.png|width=400|height=100|align=right}}
===Colours===
Plain flat colours, mostly the soft colours of natural dyes or unbleached
cloth. The palette is autumnal suggesting natural dull blues, greys, browns/
rusts, mustards and greens, dull reds etc. especially at the lower end of
the social scale. Wealthier Marchers may use deeper, brighter shades. 
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesHats.jpg|width=300|align=right}}
===Icons===
* '''Livery''' Members of a household generally wear their livery in some way – as a [[livery coat]], [[sash]] or [[pewter badge]].
* '''Poppets''' and other symbols of the land play an important role in [[the Marches hearth magic]]. Many Marchers, all children and every home in the Marches have at least one poppet.
* '''Apples'' The symbol the apple, and fruit and seed in general, is a common representation of the soul and the cycle of rebirth.
* '''Crow''' and '''Rat''' are both images of ill-omen and bad luck.
==Clothing==
Marchers favour plain clothes, [[tunic]]s, simple [[hood]]s, hose and [[shirt]]s. Wealthier characters might wear finer [[robe]]s, cotehardies or a simple doublet, but even then plain wool or heavy linen will be more appropriate than fancy patterns or embroidery.
Medieval re-enactments are a great source of inspiration for the look and feel of the Marches territories - although unlike history, its worth noting that Marches society is gender neutral.

Marcher leg wear is practical and slim fitting. Close fitting trousers are practical and easy to come by or make.
[[Hose]], either joined or split, are worn with [[braies]] and a long shirt. An extremely simple untailored cut for shirts fits the Marches very well: Full in the body and sleeve, possibly gathered at neck and wrist.

[[Doublet]]s are popular in the Marches, a snug-fitting buttoned jacket that is shaped and fitted to the body. It can be worn over the shirt or under another layer of clothing. They tend to be short and simple – fancy slash work doesn't really fit the Marchers practical approach.

A woollen or heavy linen overdress
such as a [[kirtle]] or [[cotehardie]] over a shirt or [[shift]]
is be a good alternative to shirts and hose.
The look is long, lean and smooth and laced to fit.
Back lacing shows higher status and gives a better line. Side lacing is more common.
It would be rare to see a gathered skirt (common to Tudor kirtles) in the Marches.

Headwear is frequently worn, from a simple cap or [[coif]], to [[hat]]s or something like a [[hood]] with liripipe or a [[chaperon]].

Marchers have no pockets, so a pouch is invaluable – [[bollock pouch|bollock]] or [[kidney pouch]]es
or leather bags are perfect. Belts are often very long, wrapped round,
looped at the front and left to dangle.

The [[#Monks and Friars|typical clothing]] of both male and femals [[The_Marches_religious_beliefs|monks and friars]] consists of a [[#Monks and Friars|traditional plain monk's habit]].


{{CaptionedImage|file=Marcher Camp.jpg|title=The hearth is the core of a Marcher home, even in Anvil.|width=400|height=400|align=right}}
==Camps==

Gates and doors are traditionally decorated with woven bundles of grain on either side, the respect shown to the land prevents evil doers from entering. The hearth is where food taken from the land is prepared. It should always be kept clean and ideally be decorated with fresh cut flowers to prevent food cooked there causing a poison of the blood. Poor March Folk or those on campaign will make do with bundles of grass or common meadow flowers.

{{CaptionedImage|file=Marchers_through_Sentinel_Gate.jpg|title=The Marches march out through the sentinel gate|width=800|height=400|align=left}}
==Weaponry==
The classic Marcher fighting unit is a block of assorted polearms recruited from the yeomanry. Prosperous marchers often wear plate and wield great swords, poleaxes or hammers, shattering gaps open for the billfolk to exploit.

Bows, in particular longbows, are also a common sight among the Marchers units on the battlefield.

===Armour===
Padded [[gambeson]]s or [[leather jack]]s are common for the poor, with a [[harness of plate]] for richer individuals. [[Brigandine]]s are an intermediate option. Households often wear matching [[livery coat]]s, although simple [[sash]]es or badges are also used to denote affiliation. [[Jack chain]]s over a gambeson are ideal for a Marcher yeoman.

===Weapons===
Bows are common. In hand-to-hand combat Marchers favour bills and other pole-arms. Two handed swords are common for richer characters in heavier armour, as well as warhammers, maces or poleaxes. Any historical weapons from the Hundred Years War and the War of the Roses are typical: poleaxes, bills and other polearms are iconic; warhammers, bollock daggers, axes, falchions, mauls, and improvised weapons based on farm equipment are all carried by some.

====Shields====
Large shields are much less common than in other nations; shield-walls are seen as a tactic best left behind in Dawn. Marchers who have a good reason not to use a pole-arm or a great sword, such as martial Landskeepers fearing arrows, or skirmish groups protecting the flanks will often use a small buckler to go alongside their weapon of choice.
 

==Marcher household==
Any Marcher who owns farmland is a member of a [[Marcher_Household|household]], albeit perhaps a household of one, and any Marcher Household can declare a '''livery'''. Members of the household tend to wear the livery colours in some way. Stewards of a household that allies to a more powerful household usually retain their own livery, or combine it with the new households’ colours in some way. Households often wear matching [[livery coat|livery jackets]], although simple [[sash]]es or [[badge]]s are also effective ways of showing affiliation.

{{CaptionedImage|file=Kings Stoke Fighters.jpg|width=600|Marcher Household arrayed for battle.|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Balston Fighting.jpg|width=600|House Balston|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarcherFamily.jpg|width=600|In livery from a young age|height=200|align=left}}
 

==Yeomen==
Poor [[Yeoman of the Marches|Yeomen]] may wear just a plain coloured jack or padded gambeson as their only armour.
Wealthier Yeomen usually have livery coats in their Household colours and mail or plate over the
top if they have it.
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen1.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen2.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen3.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Erwillian Mann.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=CullachMarching.jpg|width=500|height=250}}

==Stewards==
The head of a household, a [[steward]], may wear richer colours, but most likely in home grown wool not rarer silk. Wealthy Marchers are often seen in full harness of plate in battle.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Henry Talbot in Plate.jpg|title=Film: Ironclad|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards2.jpg|title=Film: Ironclad|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards3.jpg|title=Film: Snow White and the Huntsman|width=187|height=250}}

==Beaters==
[[The_Marches_military_concerns#Beaters|Beaters]] are skilled trackers and gamekeepers. They watch the borders of the Marches. They are inspired by the classic British archers of the period mixed with the Rangers of Ithilien from Lord of the Rings.
Beaters usually wear lighter armour, either just a padded or leather jack or else a leather tunic like the ones worn by the Rangers in Lord of the Rings.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Beater Andrew Daybell.jpg|caption=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|title=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|width=350|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Morgan Archer.jpg|title=Morgan Archer, House Talbot. Beater, hunter and game keeper.|caption=Morgan Archer (Judith Ressler)|width=220|height=200}}
== Aldermen and Townsfolk==
Many [[The Marches economic interests|aldermen]] take great pride in their ceremonial chains of office, sometimes referred to as "Chains of Prosperity". Some go so far as to commission them as magical items, such as an [[Alderman's Edge]].
{{CaptionedImage|file=Friar Alan.jpg|width=187|height=250|align=right}}
==Monks and Friars==
Both male and female [[The Marches religious beliefs|monks and friars]] wear traditional plain [[monk's habit]] either
in dark colours, or white with a dark [[scapular]].
A simple brown [[cassock]] works well but it might also be seen in black or
grey. A more complex arrangement with dark scapular over white undergarments is also a popular choice.

A [[chasuble]] or [[cowl]] is often worn over the habit, in particular during the cold seasons.
 
==Landskeepers==
Some [[The Marches magical traditions#Landskeepers|landskeepers]] wear [[robe]]s, similar to the monk, but a [[jerkin]], shirt and hose, with rolled-up sleeves is just as good an alternative. A landskeeper is well used to hard work in the fields and their look reflects that.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Landkeeper.jpg|width=402|height=200}}

==Children's costumes==
Children in the Marches can be dressed in scaled down versions of their parent's clothes. For toddlers and babies, traditional [[smock]]s, or simple t-[[tunic]]s and [[drawstring trousers]] are simple and easy to pull-on garments, that can be made in linen or cotton for easy washing! These types of clothes also have plenty of flexibility in terms of size, meaning you'll get more than one year's use out of them. Small [[coif]]s are great for keeping the sun off a baby's head and simple [[Hat#Straw Hat|straw hats]] can also be used to stop children burning. Older children can either have their own costumes, or be given adult clothes which are then rolled up and belted to fit - the practical Marchers are unlikely to waste any clothing and hand me downs are a cheap (in and out of character!) way to clothe children.

General tips for costume for children:
* Robes that stop at knee - mid-calf will be less of a trip hazard
* Headgear that can be very simply retied is great
* Avoiding things that can pull around the neck is wise (strings on cloaks/hats on cords/ tabards that don't secure under the arms
* Wider neck holes, sleeves and armholes will help with getting costume on and off, and leave room for growth

*[http://www.mathildegirlgenius.com/Documentation/KASF2006/InfantOutfit.pdf Information on clothes and swaddling for babies]
*[http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mae1215.html Patterns for Medieval children's clothes]
*[http://www.fabric-dreams.co.uk/Children/Burda-Schnitt-Muster-historisches-Kleid-Gr-98-128::8480.html Childrens' dresses]
*[http://www.fabric-dreams.co.uk/Carneval-Costumes/Burda-Schnitt-Muster-Karnevalskostuem-Musketier-104-140::8481.html Childrens' shirt, tunic and hood]
*[http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m5499-products-8715.php?page_id=915 'Mother and Daughter' dresses]
*[http://www.revivalclothing.com/medievalchildrensclothing.aspx Revival Clothing's Premade items for children]
*[http://www.gambeson.pl/medieval-on-line-shop/medieval-clothing-for-kids.html Gambeson's Premade items for children]
{{CaptionedImage|file=CM-130726-0034.jpg|width=187|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MG0690.jpg|width=400|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesChild4.jpg|width=187|height=200|caption=Costume by [http://www.cloakedanddaggered.com/menu/childrenswear/ Cloak'd and Dagger'd]}}

==10 Quick Costuming Tips==
* Charity shop fabric rails are a great source of wool blankets that can be made into staples of Marcher costume.
* With the popularity of medieval re-enactment, its very easy to buy off the peg [[hose]], [[doublet]]s, [[cotehardie]] and other key pieces. 12th–15th century kit is preferable to Tudor kit when choosing on-line or at kit fairs.
* Instead of actual [[hose]], any reasonably close fitting trousers in earthy or dark colours will look good for practical Marches characters.
* Households and families are important in the Marches - displaying the house livery can be done cheaply through simple [[sash]]es or [[badge]]s or if you fancy something a bit clearer, follow the guides for [[livery coat]]s.
* There are a range of options for practical footwear - from bespoke re-enactment shoes to simple desert boots. Any soft leather or suede with simple ties, laces or side buckles will look good.
* There is no need to worried about all that itchy wool and linen: [[Shirt]]s and [[shift]]s are both are simple, loose and easily available in cotton and make a good part of the Marchers look. And whilst re-enactment markets are very useful for Marcher supplies, we're not looking for historical accuracy here – There's no expectation for you to be in itchy underwear!
* For those playing a rich Marcher, it could be easy to make choices that make the costume seem very similar to neighbouring Dawn. By sticking to plain fabrics (wool, maybe velvet, but not silks or brocades) and choosing rich autumnal colours rather than bright summery ones confusion can be avoided.
* Marcher beaters who are likely to wear [[light leather armour]] can avoid being confused with Steinr and Navarr by staying away from furs and going for classic Marcher accessories. [[Bollock pouch]]es are one example that are really simple to make and easily available to buy.
* Want to indicate low status? Try adding an [[apron]] or [[leather trousers]] or swap a doublet for a sleeveless [[jerkin]].
* Want to show off high status? Try doing so very discreetly, with a rich lining or carefully chosen buttons rather than ostentatious trims and decoration.

==Things you're unlikely to see==
* Don't expect 'bling' in the Marches, even the wealthy are likely to be subtle - with wealth displayed in linings and button detail, not slashed sleeves, full gathered fabrics, or rich embroidery or brocade.
* You won't find anyone worrying about hand stitching, whether that coat is too long for 1389 or what your underwear is made of. The Marches is a historically inspired culture, not a historically accurate one.
* There are no modesty guidelines in the Marches and gender roles don't follow the historical pattern - long skirts and laced dresses are a choice made by some not an expectation of all.

=Costume Sources=
As the Marches draw on inspiration from Earth history, there are both vendors of appropriate items of costume and documents dealing with the costume styles easily available for Marcher players looking for more details.

===Historical Women's Wear Reference Material===
As with military clothes, dresses can reflect household livery. 'Parti-coloured' (or split coloured) dresses look very effective.
[http://www.laracorsets.com/15th_Cen_Womens_clothing.htm Lara Corset's] website gives an excellent overview of all aspects of women's wardrobes in the late 1400s,

[http://matildalazouche.livejournal.com/ Matilda la Zouche's] wardrobe follows the reconstruction of several historically accurate outfits for a broad medieval period.

Some general pattern books are available which cover all types of women's wear:
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=240 Medieval Women's dress]
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=227 High medieval women's dress]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Medieval-Tailors-Assistant-1200-1500/dp/0896762394/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1341860986&sr=8-2 The Medieval Tailor’s Assistant]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/Make-Your-Own-Medieval-Clothing/dp/393892215X/ref=pd_sim_sbs_b_1 Make Your Own Medieval Clothing for women].
* [http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mag1314.html Nehelenia Patterns - Multi part pattern for men and women]

===Historical Men's Wear Reference Material===
{{CaptionedImage|file=ttunic.jpg|width=300|align=right|caption=T-tunic}}
Some general pattern books are available which cover all types of men's wear:
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=234 High Medieval men's dress]
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=229 Medieval men's dress]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Medieval-Tailors-Assistant-1200-1500/dp/0896762394/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1341860986&sr=8-2 The Medieval Tailor’s Assistant]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/Make-Your-Own-Medieval-Clothing/dp/3938922141/ref=pd_sim_sbs_b_2 Make Your Own Medieval Clothing for Men]
* [http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mag1314.html Nehelenia Patterns - Multi part pattern for men and women]

===Reenactment Sources===
[http://images.google.com/images?q=medieval+reenactment Medieval re-enactment], [http://images.google.com/images?q=wars+of+the+roses+reenactment Wars of the roses] and [http://images.google.com/images?q=13th+century+reenactment 13th], [http://images.google.com/images?q=14th+century+reenactment 14th] or [http://images.google.com/images?q=15th+century+reenactment 15th] Century re-enactment will all provide helpful inspiration.

===Guides to Livery===
*[http://www.historiclife.com/pdf/KASF2008/15thCenturyLivery.pdf 15th Century Livery]
*[http://www.bucks-retinue.org.uk/content/view/177/243/ Livery coats]
*[http://www.vexillia.ltd.uk/common/shop_books.html#5 Standards, Badges & Livery Colours of the Wars of the Roses], Pat McGill & Jonathan Jones, Freezywater Publications
*[http://www.vexillia.ltd.uk/common/shop_books.html#5 Heraldic Banners of the Wars of the Roses] (3 vols), Pat McGill & Thomas Coveney, Frezywater Publications.
*[http://www.medievalartandwoodcraft.com Medieval Art and Woodcraft] make livery badges, banners and flags, signage, medical charts etc. to order

===Books===
* The Medieval Soldier: 15th Century Campaign Life Recreated in Colour Photographs, Gerry Embleton & John Howe,
* English Medieval Knight 1400-1500, Christopher Gravett, Osprey Publishing
* The Great Warbow, Matthew Strickland & Robert Hardy, Sutton Publishing – probably the best accessible book you can get on the subject.
* Arms and Armour of the Medieval Knight, David Edge & John Miles Paddock, Saturn Books

===Costume sellers===
*[https://www.facebook.com/themidgardseamstress The Midgard Seamstress] Custom made UK LARP and Re-enactment costumes
*[http://armstreet.com/ Arm Street] Medieval and Fantasy clothing from Russia (English language website)
*[http://www.cloakedanddaggered.com Cloak’d and Dagger’d]
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/customcostumecompany/ Custom Costume Company] Bespoke designs for re-enactors and roleplayers
*[http://historicenterprises.com Historic Enterprises]American based costume company. Trades at TORM
*[http://medievaldresscompany.com/index.htm Medieval Dress Company] Clothing and leatherwork
*[http://www.matuls.pl/index.php?IDP=1&Lng=en Matuls] Clothing, armour tents and camp accessories from Poland (English language website)
*[http://www.revivalclothing.com/ Revival Clothing]
*[http://www.sallygreen.co.uk Sally Green]
*[http://www.sew-mill.com Sew-mill]

===Armourers===
*https://www.facebook.com/ArmourServices
*https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Medieval-Rats/147041485362649
*http://www.armabohemia.cz/Novestr/homeA.htm
*http://www.armorymarek.com/
*http://www.bestarmour.com/
*http://www.capapie.co.uk/
*http://www.dtok.fsnet.co.uk/
*http://www.lancasters-armourie.co.uk/
*http://www.stgeorgearmouryshop.co.uk/index2.html
*http://www.whiteroseapparel.com/
*http://www.whiterosearmoury.com/
*[http://www.darkbladeuk.co.uk/EMPIRE-LARP/Marches/c-1-114-121/ Darkblade] studded leather armour
* [https://www.facebook.com/TotallyLeathered Totally Leathered] [[Totally Leathered]] provides custom tooled leatherwork & bespoke armour.
* [[Idiom Productions]] Costume and Props Workshop creates custom hand-tooled leather armour, clothing and LRP weapons
* [[Evenlode Studios]] - High quality leather armour, costume and props handmade

===Leather items including shoes===
*[http://www.philfraser.com/index.htm Phil Fraser]
*[http://www.re-enactment-shoes.co.uk/ Re-enactment shoes ]
*[http://www.np-historicalshoes.com/home.php?lang=en Historical Shoes]
*[http://www.historische-schuhe.de/epages/61580448.sf/en_GB/?ViewObjectID=102641CP-Schule Historic Shoes] German company (English language website)
*[http://ravenswoodleather.com/index.php?p=home Ravenswood Leather Items] America site. Non-historical leather items.

===Fur and traditional materials===
*[http://www.houseofdeclifford.co.uk/ House of de Clifford] Ethically sourced furs of all kinds
*[http://www.candles-for-all-ages.com/ Candles for All Ages] Tallow and Beeswax Candles
*Herts Fabrics
*Bernie the Bolt

===Camping accessories and other bits===
*[http://www.sallypointer.com/shop/ Sally Pointer] Hats and bits and bobs
*[http://www.smoke-fire.com/ Smoke and Fire] American company.
*[http://www.medieval-market.com/ Medieval Market] German company (English language website) – Clothing, furniture, and other items
*[http://medievaldresscompany.com/index.htm Medieval Dress Company] Clothing and leatherwork
*[http://www.matuls.pl/index.php?IDP=1&Lng=en Matuls] Clothing, armour tents and camp accessories from Poland (English language website)
*[http://www.reenactors-shop.de/ Reenactors Shop] German company (English language website) Lots of bits and bobs, including camping accessories.
*[http://www.medievaldesign.com/english.asp Medieval design] 1st -16th century clothing, furniture and other historical products.

===Flags, banners and livery badges===
*[http://www.medievalartandwoodcraft.com Medieval Art and Woodcraft] Historical and historically inspired banners, flags and livery badges

===Pewter and cast goods===
*[http://www.castsfromthepast.co.uk/main.htm Casts from the Past] Pewter items including livery badges and some household items
*[https://www.quietpress.com/ The Quiet Press] Historical buckles, brooches and other ornamental metalwork
*[http://www.billyandcharlie.com/ Billy and Charlie's Finest Quality Pewter Goods] American company. Pewter badges and other accessories.
*[http://www.hr-replikate.de/englisch/index.htm HR-Replikate] German company. Jewellery based on archeological finds (English language website)
*[http://www.lionheartreplicas.co.uk/ Lionheart Replicas] Pewterwear
*[http://www.pewterreplicas.co.uk/ Pewter Replicas] Pewter badges, household items and livery collars

===Wooden items===
*[http://www.douggiethewood.co.uk/ Douggie the Wood] Wooden Furniture
*[http://www.robin-wood.co.uk/index.htm Robin Wood] Authentic wood turned historical items
*[http://www.vicus.org.uk/woodturner/index.htm Paul Atkin] Bowls and other hand turned items

===Tents===
*[https://www.canvastentshop.co.uk/default.htm Canvas Tents]

[[Category:The Marches]]
[[Category:Nations]]

File:Marcher Camp.jpg

2016-04-25T17:16:06Z

Gereon: {{Category:Photos:BethDooner}}

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-25T16:47:40Z

Gereon: Add the last chunk of Costume information here.

{{CaptionedImage|file=Wassail with Scarecrow.jpg|caption=[[Wassail]], the harvest festival|width=300|align=left}}
==Overview==
[[The Marches]] draws strongly on English history from the 12th century through to the War of the Roses for costume, weaponry and armour.

The costume of the Marches has a 'solidity' to it, a worn, lived-in look that contrasts with its neighbour [[Dawn]]'s high romance, gleaming plate and vivid hues. The Marches is Kenneth Brannagh’s Henry V rather than Laurence Olivier’s.

''Also see  [[Marches icons and artistry]].''
<ic style="clear:both">
We strive to treat the mud with care
with lots of muck and tilling. 
And it repays us thousandfold:
That’s why its so fulfilling. 
And when the day is over,
we’ll drink a glass or more, 
to Marcher mud - its in our blood, ingrained in every pore. 
We’re down to earth,
down and dirty:
Digging for victory.
</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Shanks_Awning.jpg|width=300|align=left}}
==Breakdown==
===Feel===
Gritty, solid, practical, traditional, mud, blood, green fields, rural, iron.
===Influences===
Wars of the Roses England, Rangers of Ithilien (Beaters), Cadfael (Monks and Landskeepers).
===Materials===
Wool, calico, linen, leather.
 
{{CaptionedImage|file=Marches_colour_scheme.png|width=400|height=100|align=right}}
===Colours===
Plain flat colours, mostly the soft colours of natural dyes or unbleached
cloth. The palette is autumnal suggesting natural dull blues, greys, browns/
rusts, mustards and greens, dull reds etc. especially at the lower end of
the social scale. Wealthier Marchers may use deeper, brighter shades. 
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesHats.jpg|width=300|align=right}}
==Clothing==
Marchers favour plain clothes, [[tunic]]s, simple [[hood]]s, hose and [[shirt]]s. Wealthier characters might wear finer [[robe]]s, cotehardies or a simple doublet, but even then plain wool or heavy linen will be more appropriate than fancy patterns or embroidery.
Medieval re-enactments are a great source of inspiration for the look and feel of the Marches territories - although unlike history, its worth noting that Marches society is gender neutral.

Marcher leg wear is practical and slim fitting. Close fitting trousers are practical and easy to come by or make.
[[Hose]], either joined or split, are worn with [[braies]] and a long shirt. An extremely simple untailored cut for shirts fits the Marches very well: Full in the body and sleeve, possibly gathered at neck and wrist.

[[Doublet]]s are popular in the Marches, a snug-fitting buttoned jacket that is shaped and fitted to the body. It can be worn over the shirt or under another layer of clothing. They tend to be short and simple – fancy slash work doesn't really fit the Marchers practical approach.

A woollen or heavy linen overdress
such as a [[kirtle]] or [[cotehardie]] over a shirt or [[shift]]
is be a good alternative to shirts and hose.
The look is long, lean and smooth and laced to fit.
Back lacing shows higher status and gives a better line. Side lacing is more common.
It would be rare to see a gathered skirt (common to Tudor kirtles) in the Marches.

Headwear is frequently worn, from a simple cap or [[coif]], to [[hat]]s or something like a [[hood]] with liripipe or a [[chaperon]].

Marchers have no pockets, so a pouch is invaluable – [[bollock pouch|bollock]] or [[kidney pouch]]es
or leather bags are perfect. Belts are often very long, wrapped round,
looped at the front and left to dangle.

The [[#Monks and Friars|typical clothing]] of both male and femals [[The_Marches_religious_beliefs|monks and friars]] consists of a [[#Monks and Friars|traditional plain monk's habit]].

{{CaptionedImage|file=Marchers_through_Sentinel_Gate.jpg|title=The Marches march out through the sentinel gate|width=800|height=400|align=left}}

==Weaponry==
The classic Marcher fighting unit is a block of assorted polearms recruited from the yeomanry. Prosperous marchers often wear plate and wield great swords, poleaxes or hammers, shattering gaps open for the billfolk to exploit.

Bows, in particular longbows, are also a common sight among the Marchers units on the battlefield.

===Armour===
Padded [[gambeson]]s or [[leather jack]]s are common for the poor, with a [[harness of plate]] for richer individuals. [[Brigandine]]s are an intermediate option. Households often wear matching [[livery coat]]s, although simple [[sash]]es or badges are also used to denote affiliation. [[Jack chain]]s over a gambeson are ideal for a Marcher yeoman.

===Weapons===
Bows are common. In hand-to-hand combat Marchers favour bills and other pole-arms. Two handed swords are common for richer characters in heavier armour, as well as warhammers, maces or poleaxes. Any historical weapons from the Hundred Years War and the War of the Roses are typical: poleaxes, bills and other polearms are iconic; warhammers, bollock daggers, axes, falchions, mauls, and improvised weapons based on farm equipment are all carried by some.

====Shields====
Large shields are much less common than in other nations; shield-walls are seen as a tactic best left behind in Dawn. Marchers who have a good reason not to use a pole-arm or a great sword, such as martial Landskeepers fearing arrows, or skirmish groups protecting the flanks will often use a small buckler to go alongside their weapon of choice.
 

==Marcher household==
Any Marcher who owns farmland is a member of a [[Marcher_Household|household]], albeit perhaps a household of one, and any Marcher Household can declare a '''livery'''. Members of the household tend to wear the livery colours in some way. Stewards of a household that allies to a more powerful household usually retain their own livery, or combine it with the new households’ colours in some way. Households often wear matching [[livery coat|livery jackets]], although simple [[sash]]es or [[badge]]s are also effective ways of showing affiliation.

{{CaptionedImage|file=Kings Stoke Fighters.jpg|width=600|Marcher Household arrayed for battle.|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Balston Fighting.jpg|width=600|House Balston|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarcherFamily.jpg|width=600|In livery from a young age|height=200|align=left}}
 

==Yeomen==
Poor [[Yeoman of the Marches|Yeomen]] may wear just a plain coloured jack or padded gambeson as their only armour.
Wealthier Yeomen usually have livery coats in their Household colours and mail or plate over the
top if they have it.
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen1.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen2.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen3.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Erwillian Mann.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=CullachMarching.jpg|width=500|height=250}}

==Stewards==
The head of a household, a [[steward]], may wear richer colours, but most likely in home grown wool not rarer silk. Wealthy Marchers are often seen in full harness of plate in battle.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Henry Talbot in Plate.jpg|title=Film: Ironclad|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards2.jpg|title=Film: Ironclad|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards3.jpg|title=Film: Snow White and the Huntsman|width=187|height=250}}

==Beaters==
[[The_Marches_military_concerns#Beaters|Beaters]] are skilled trackers and gamekeepers. They watch the borders of the Marches. They are inspired by the classic British archers of the period mixed with the Rangers of Ithilien from Lord of the Rings.
Beaters usually wear lighter armour, either just a padded or leather jack or else a leather tunic like the ones worn by the Rangers in Lord of the Rings.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Beater Andrew Daybell.jpg|caption=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|title=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|width=350|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Morgan Archer.jpg|title=Morgan Archer, House Talbot. Beater, hunter and game keeper.|caption=Morgan Archer (Judith Ressler)|width=220|height=200}}
== Aldermen and Townsfolk==
Many [[The Marches economic interests|aldermen]] take great pride in their ceremonial chains of office, sometimes referred to as "Chains of Prosperity". Some go so far as to commission them as magical items, such as an [[Alderman's Edge]].
{{CaptionedImage|file=Friar Alan.jpg|width=187|height=250|align=right}}
==Monks and Friars==
Both male and female [[The Marches religious beliefs|monks and friars]] wear traditional plain [[monk's habit]] either
in dark colours, or white with a dark [[scapular]].
A simple brown [[cassock]] works well but it might also be seen in black or
grey. A more complex arrangement with dark scapular over white undergarments is also a popular choice.

A [[chasuble]] or [[cowl]] is often worn over the habit, in particular during the cold seasons.
 
==Landskeepers==
Some [[The Marches magical traditions#Landskeepers|landskeepers]] wear [[robe]]s, similar to the monk, but a [[jerkin]], shirt and hose, with rolled-up sleeves is just as good an alternative. A landskeeper is well used to hard work in the fields and their look reflects that.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Landkeeper.jpg|width=402|height=200}}

==Children's costumes==
Children in the Marches can be dressed in scaled down versions of their parent's clothes. For toddlers and babies, traditional [[smock]]s, or simple t-[[tunic]]s and [[drawstring trousers]] are simple and easy to pull-on garments, that can be made in linen or cotton for easy washing! These types of clothes also have plenty of flexibility in terms of size, meaning you'll get more than one year's use out of them. Small [[coif]]s are great for keeping the sun off a baby's head and simple [[Hat#Straw Hat|straw hats]] can also be used to stop children burning. Older children can either have their own costumes, or be given adult clothes which are then rolled up and belted to fit - the practical Marchers are unlikely to waste any clothing and hand me downs are a cheap (in and out of character!) way to clothe children.

General tips for costume for children:
* Robes that stop at knee - mid-calf will be less of a trip hazard
* Headgear that can be very simply retied is great
* Avoiding things that can pull around the neck is wise (strings on cloaks/hats on cords/ tabards that don't secure under the arms
* Wider neck holes, sleeves and armholes will help with getting costume on and off, and leave room for growth

*[http://www.mathildegirlgenius.com/Documentation/KASF2006/InfantOutfit.pdf Information on clothes and swaddling for babies]
*[http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mae1215.html Patterns for Medieval children's clothes]
*[http://www.fabric-dreams.co.uk/Children/Burda-Schnitt-Muster-historisches-Kleid-Gr-98-128::8480.html Childrens' dresses]
*[http://www.fabric-dreams.co.uk/Carneval-Costumes/Burda-Schnitt-Muster-Karnevalskostuem-Musketier-104-140::8481.html Childrens' shirt, tunic and hood]
*[http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m5499-products-8715.php?page_id=915 'Mother and Daughter' dresses]
*[http://www.revivalclothing.com/medievalchildrensclothing.aspx Revival Clothing's Premade items for children]
*[http://www.gambeson.pl/medieval-on-line-shop/medieval-clothing-for-kids.html Gambeson's Premade items for children]
{{CaptionedImage|file=CM-130726-0034.jpg|width=187|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MG0690.jpg|width=400|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesChild4.jpg|width=187|height=200|caption=Costume by [http://www.cloakedanddaggered.com/menu/childrenswear/ Cloak'd and Dagger'd]}}

==10 Quick Costuming Tips==
* Charity shop fabric rails are a great source of wool blankets that can be made into staples of Marcher costume.
* With the popularity of medieval re-enactment, its very easy to buy off the peg [[hose]], [[doublet]]s, [[cotehardie]] and other key pieces. 12th–15th century kit is preferable to Tudor kit when choosing on-line or at kit fairs.
* Instead of actual [[hose]], any reasonably close fitting trousers in earthy or dark colours will look good for practical Marches characters.
* Households and families are important in the Marches - displaying the house livery can be done cheaply through simple [[sash]]es or [[badge]]s or if you fancy something a bit clearer, follow the guides for [[livery coat]]s.
* There are a range of options for practical footwear - from bespoke re-enactment shoes to simple desert boots. Any soft leather or suede with simple ties, laces or side buckles will look good.
* There is no need to worried about all that itchy wool and linen: [[Shirt]]s and [[shift]]s are both are simple, loose and easily available in cotton and make a good part of the Marchers look. And whilst re-enactment markets are very useful for Marcher supplies, we're not looking for historical accuracy here – There's no expectation for you to be in itchy underwear!
* For those playing a rich Marcher, it could be easy to make choices that make the costume seem very similar to neighbouring Dawn. By sticking to plain fabrics (wool, maybe velvet, but not silks or brocades) and choosing rich autumnal colours rather than bright summery ones confusion can be avoided.
* Marcher beaters who are likely to wear [[light leather armour]] can avoid being confused with Steinr and Navarr by staying away from furs and going for classic Marcher accessories. [[Bollock pouch]]es are one example that are really simple to make and easily available to buy.
* Want to indicate low status? Try adding an [[apron]] or [[leather trousers]] or swap a doublet for a sleeveless [[jerkin]].
* Want to show off high status? Try doing so very discreetly, with a rich lining or carefully chosen buttons rather than ostentatious trims and decoration.

==Things you're unlikely to see==
* Don't expect 'bling' in the Marches, even the wealthy are likely to be subtle - with wealth displayed in linings and button detail, not slashed sleeves, full gathered fabrics, or rich embroidery or brocade.
* You won't find anyone worrying about hand stitching, whether that coat is too long for 1389 or what your underwear is made of. The Marches is a historically inspired culture, not a historically accurate one.
* There are no modesty guidelines in the Marches and gender roles don't follow the historical pattern - long skirts and laced dresses are a choice made by some not an expectation of all.

=Costume Sources=
As the Marches draw on inspiration from Earth history, there are both vendors of appropriate items of costume and documents dealing with the costume styles easily available for Marcher players looking for more details.

===Historical Women's Wear Reference Material===
As with military clothes, dresses can reflect household livery. 'Parti-coloured' (or split coloured) dresses look very effective.
[http://www.laracorsets.com/15th_Cen_Womens_clothing.htm Lara Corset's] website gives an excellent overview of all aspects of women's wardrobes in the late 1400s,

[http://matildalazouche.livejournal.com/ Matilda la Zouche's] wardrobe follows the reconstruction of several historically accurate outfits for a broad medieval period.

Some general pattern books are available which cover all types of women's wear:
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=240 Medieval Women's dress]
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=227 High medieval women's dress]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Medieval-Tailors-Assistant-1200-1500/dp/0896762394/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1341860986&sr=8-2 The Medieval Tailor’s Assistant]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/Make-Your-Own-Medieval-Clothing/dp/393892215X/ref=pd_sim_sbs_b_1 Make Your Own Medieval Clothing for women].
* [http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mag1314.html Nehelenia Patterns - Multi part pattern for men and women]

===Historical Men's Wear Reference Material===
{{CaptionedImage|file=ttunic.jpg|width=300|align=right|caption=T-tunic}}
Some general pattern books are available which cover all types of men's wear:
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=234 High Medieval men's dress]
* [http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=47&product_id=229 Medieval men's dress]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Medieval-Tailors-Assistant-1200-1500/dp/0896762394/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1341860986&sr=8-2 The Medieval Tailor’s Assistant]
* [http://www.amazon.co.uk/Make-Your-Own-Medieval-Clothing/dp/3938922141/ref=pd_sim_sbs_b_2 Make Your Own Medieval Clothing for Men]
* [http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/mag1314.html Nehelenia Patterns - Multi part pattern for men and women]

===Reenactment Sources===
[http://images.google.com/images?q=medieval+reenactment Medieval re-enactment], [http://images.google.com/images?q=wars+of+the+roses+reenactment Wars of the roses] and [http://images.google.com/images?q=13th+century+reenactment 13th], [http://images.google.com/images?q=14th+century+reenactment 14th] or [http://images.google.com/images?q=15th+century+reenactment 15th] Century re-enactment will all provide helpful inspiration.

===Guides to Livery===
*[http://www.historiclife.com/pdf/KASF2008/15thCenturyLivery.pdf 15th Century Livery]
*[http://www.bucks-retinue.org.uk/content/view/177/243/ Livery coats]
*[http://www.vexillia.ltd.uk/common/shop_books.html#5 Standards, Badges & Livery Colours of the Wars of the Roses], Pat McGill & Jonathan Jones, Freezywater Publications
*[http://www.vexillia.ltd.uk/common/shop_books.html#5 Heraldic Banners of the Wars of the Roses] (3 vols), Pat McGill & Thomas Coveney, Frezywater Publications.
*[http://www.medievalartandwoodcraft.com Medieval Art and Woodcraft] make livery badges, banners and flags, signage, medical charts etc. to order

===Books===
* The Medieval Soldier: 15th Century Campaign Life Recreated in Colour Photographs, Gerry Embleton & John Howe,
* English Medieval Knight 1400-1500, Christopher Gravett, Osprey Publishing
* The Great Warbow, Matthew Strickland & Robert Hardy, Sutton Publishing – probably the best accessible book you can get on the subject.
* Arms and Armour of the Medieval Knight, David Edge & John Miles Paddock, Saturn Books

===Costume sellers===
*[https://www.facebook.com/themidgardseamstress The Midgard Seamstress] Custom made UK LARP and Re-enactment costumes
*[http://armstreet.com/ Arm Street] Medieval and Fantasy clothing from Russia (English language website)
*[http://www.cloakedanddaggered.com Cloak’d and Dagger’d]
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/customcostumecompany/ Custom Costume Company] Bespoke designs for re-enactors and roleplayers
*[http://historicenterprises.com Historic Enterprises]American based costume company. Trades at TORM
*[http://medievaldresscompany.com/index.htm Medieval Dress Company] Clothing and leatherwork
*[http://www.matuls.pl/index.php?IDP=1&Lng=en Matuls] Clothing, armour tents and camp accessories from Poland (English language website)
*[http://www.revivalclothing.com/ Revival Clothing]
*[http://www.sallygreen.co.uk Sally Green]
*[http://www.sew-mill.com Sew-mill]

===Armourers===
*https://www.facebook.com/ArmourServices
*https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Medieval-Rats/147041485362649
*http://www.armabohemia.cz/Novestr/homeA.htm
*http://www.armorymarek.com/
*http://www.bestarmour.com/
*http://www.capapie.co.uk/
*http://www.dtok.fsnet.co.uk/
*http://www.lancasters-armourie.co.uk/
*http://www.stgeorgearmouryshop.co.uk/index2.html
*http://www.whiteroseapparel.com/
*http://www.whiterosearmoury.com/
*[http://www.darkbladeuk.co.uk/EMPIRE-LARP/Marches/c-1-114-121/ Darkblade] studded leather armour
* [https://www.facebook.com/TotallyLeathered Totally Leathered] [[Totally Leathered]] provides custom tooled leatherwork & bespoke armour.
* [[Idiom Productions]] Costume and Props Workshop creates custom hand-tooled leather armour, clothing and LRP weapons
* [[Evenlode Studios]] - High quality leather armour, costume and props handmade

===Leather items including shoes===
*[http://www.philfraser.com/index.htm Phil Fraser]
*[http://www.re-enactment-shoes.co.uk/ Re-enactment shoes ]
*[http://www.np-historicalshoes.com/home.php?lang=en Historical Shoes]
*[http://www.historische-schuhe.de/epages/61580448.sf/en_GB/?ViewObjectID=102641CP-Schule Historic Shoes] German company (English language website)
*[http://ravenswoodleather.com/index.php?p=home Ravenswood Leather Items] America site. Non-historical leather items.

===Fur and traditional materials===
*[http://www.houseofdeclifford.co.uk/ House of de Clifford] Ethically sourced furs of all kinds
*[http://www.candles-for-all-ages.com/ Candles for All Ages] Tallow and Beeswax Candles
*Herts Fabrics
*Bernie the Bolt

===Camping accessories and other bits===
*[http://www.sallypointer.com/shop/ Sally Pointer] Hats and bits and bobs
*[http://www.smoke-fire.com/ Smoke and Fire] American company.
*[http://www.medieval-market.com/ Medieval Market] German company (English language website) – Clothing, furniture, and other items
*[http://medievaldresscompany.com/index.htm Medieval Dress Company] Clothing and leatherwork
*[http://www.matuls.pl/index.php?IDP=1&Lng=en Matuls] Clothing, armour tents and camp accessories from Poland (English language website)
*[http://www.reenactors-shop.de/ Reenactors Shop] German company (English language website) Lots of bits and bobs, including camping accessories.
*[http://www.medievaldesign.com/english.asp Medieval design] 1st -16th century clothing, furniture and other historical products.

===Flags, banners and livery badges===
*[http://www.medievalartandwoodcraft.com Medieval Art and Woodcraft] Historical and historically inspired banners, flags and livery badges

===Pewter and cast goods===
*[http://www.castsfromthepast.co.uk/main.htm Casts from the Past] Pewter items including livery badges and some household items
*[https://www.quietpress.com/ The Quiet Press] Historical buckles, brooches and other ornamental metalwork
*[http://www.billyandcharlie.com/ Billy and Charlie's Finest Quality Pewter Goods] American company. Pewter badges and other accessories.
*[http://www.hr-replikate.de/englisch/index.htm HR-Replikate] German company. Jewellery based on archeological finds (English language website)
*[http://www.lionheartreplicas.co.uk/ Lionheart Replicas] Pewterwear
*[http://www.pewterreplicas.co.uk/ Pewter Replicas] Pewter badges, household items and livery collars

===Wooden items===
*[http://www.douggiethewood.co.uk/ Douggie the Wood] Wooden Furniture
*[http://www.robin-wood.co.uk/index.htm Robin Wood] Authentic wood turned historical items
*[http://www.vicus.org.uk/woodturner/index.htm Paul Atkin] Bowls and other hand turned items

===Tents===
*[https://www.canvastentshop.co.uk/default.htm Canvas Tents]

[[Category:The Marches]]
[[Category:Nations]]

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-25T16:38:49Z

Gereon: /* 10 Quick Costuming Tips */

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-25T16:35:09Z

Gereon: Take content from The Marches Costume

Marcher household

2016-04-25T16:28:01Z

Gereon: Add links

{{CaptionedImage|file=Marcher-Group-3441.jpg|align=right|width=400|caption=Costumes by the Midgard Seamstress}}
==Overview==
A Marcher household represents a group of [[Yeoman of the Marches|yeomen]], led by one of their number who is called a [[steward]]. Political power in the Marches rests in the hands of the households.

==Creating a household==
A household is the easiest kind of Marcher group to create. Even the smallest household's voice can count in the [[The Marches leadership#leading a territory|process of selecting the senator for their territory]]. The group leader will be its steward and is usually the most competent politician in the group rather than a battle leader.

The core of the group will be one or more yeomen. Some of these are likely to be military characters, but not necessarily heavily-armoured soldiers. A household's yeomen are just as likely to be lightly armoured, with bills, mattocks and bows. A household may also include the crafters who live on the household's land, often a smith, a friar or two. Most households also include a few [[The Marches military concerns#Beaters|beaters]] in their number.

You will want to choose a [[Marches_Territories|territory]] to come from: [[Upwold]] the oldest and hilliest, [[Bregasland]] home to the fen-dwellers, or rich, rolling, [[Mitwold]].

Your group may also have originated from the [[Mournwold|Mourn]], the territory now held by barbarians. It is important to be careful with your choice, as the Mourn does not have a senator, so if your group own lands here they will not be able to draw political power from them.

[[Category:The Marches]]

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-25T16:25:34Z

Gereon: /* Marcher household */

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-25T16:10:42Z

Gereon: /* Armour */

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-25T15:51:57Z

Gereon: /* Clothing */

Coif

2016-04-25T15:47:20Z

Gereon: Take content from The Marches Costume

Most Marchers will wear some sort of headwear. Hoods, coifs, caps and hats all add to the Marcher look.

Coifs are simple pieces of headwear. They can be made from linen, for every day wear, and from leather or padded linen or wool for combat. Coifs can be simple white linen, or embroidered and coloured for a fancier look.
A coif can be worn under a hat or helmet for comfort.

*[http://janes-wardrobe.deviantart.com/art/simple-medieval-coif-81783474 Coif pattern]
*[http://www.virtue.to/articles/coif.html 3 different styles of coif pattern]
*[http://matildalazouche.livejournal.com/3296.html Shows how to alter the above pattern to create a nice cap for women]

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-25T15:44:28Z

Gereon: /* Clothing */

Cotehardie

2016-04-25T15:40:22Z

Gereon: Add image

{{CaptionedImage|file=mens_cotehardie.jpg|width=200|align=right|caption=Cotehardie}}
The [http://images.google.com/images?q=cotehardie cotehardie] developed from the [[kirtle]] or [[tunic]], a basic pull on, t-shaped gown. The cotehardie emerged when its precursors became more fitted, adding either button or lace up the front. Cotehardies can also lace up the side, or in the back (showing status as help is required!) and can be as tight or loose as desired.

The cotehardie comes in many lengths - from high on the thigh to floor length. It hangs best when made in heavier fabrics.
Generally these dresses are made from wool, but heavier weights of linen or cotton are also suitable.
The cotehardie tends to denote higher status than a simple tunic.

In particular long cotehardies are usually worn over a lightweight underdress called a [[shift]] which can be made by simply adding some panels to a t-tunic to allow for movement. All of these dresses are straightforward to make either from patterns or from pattern diagrams and are easy to buy from both reenactment and LARP suppliers.

These dresses can be worn with the skirt tucked into the belt at the front to display the shift underneath, or show off a fancy lining.

*[http://www.theweebsite.com/cotelande/patterns.html#houplande Instructions on creating cotehardies]
*[http://www.paulmeekins.co.uk/patterns/patternpages/pp21.html Period Patterns 21]
*[http://www.paulmeekins.co.uk/patterns/patternpages/pp23.html Period Patterns 23]
*[http://www.paulmeekins.co.uk/patterns/patternpages/RH022.html Reconstructing History 022]

Cotehardie

2016-04-25T15:39:51Z

Gereon: Merge other cotehardie part from the costume page

The [http://images.google.com/images?q=cotehardie cotehardie] developed from the [[kirtle]] or [[tunic]], a basic pull on, t-shaped gown. The cotehardie emerged when its precursors became more fitted, adding either button or lace up the front. Cotehardies can also lace up the side, or in the back (showing status as help is required!) and can be as tight or loose as desired.

The cotehardie comes in many lengths - from high on the thigh to floor length. It hangs best when made in heavier fabrics.
Generally these dresses are made from wool, but heavier weights of linen or cotton are also suitable.
The cotehardie tends to denote higher status than a simple tunic.

In particular long cotehardies are usually worn over a lightweight underdress called a [[shift]] which can be made by simply adding some panels to a t-tunic to allow for movement. All of these dresses are straightforward to make either from patterns or from pattern diagrams and are easy to buy from both reenactment and LARP suppliers.

These dresses can be worn with the skirt tucked into the belt at the front to display the shift underneath, or show off a fancy lining.

*[http://www.theweebsite.com/cotelande/patterns.html#houplande Instructions on creating cotehardies]
*[http://www.paulmeekins.co.uk/patterns/patternpages/pp21.html Period Patterns 21]
*[http://www.paulmeekins.co.uk/patterns/patternpages/pp23.html Period Patterns 23]
*[http://www.paulmeekins.co.uk/patterns/patternpages/RH022.html Reconstructing History 022]

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-25T15:33:31Z

Gereon: /* Clothing */

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-25T15:26:53Z

Gereon: /* Clothing */

Cotehardie

2016-04-25T15:26:08Z

Gereon: Take content from The Marches Costume

The [http://images.google.com/images?q=cotehardie cotehardie] developed from the kirtle, a basic pull on, t-shaped gown which was worn throughout northern Europe from the dark ages onwards, when kirtles became more fitted and either button or lace up the front. Cotehardies can also lace up the side, or in the back (showing status as help is required!) and can be as tight or loose as desired.

They're usually worn over a lightweight underdress called a [[shift]] which can be made by simply adding some panels to a t-tunic to allow for movement. All of these dresses are straightforward to make either from patterns or from pattern diagrams and are easy to buy from both reenactment and LARP suppliers. Generally these dresses are made from wool, but heavier weights of linen or cotton are also suitable.

These dresses can be worn with the skirt tucked into the belt at the front to display the shift underneath, or show off a fancy lining.

*[http://www.theweebsite.com/cotelande/patterns.html#houplande Instructions on creating cotehardies]
*[http://www.paulmeekins.co.uk/patterns/patternpages/pp21.html Period Patterns 21]

Kirtle

2016-04-25T15:22:41Z

Gereon: Take content from The Marches Costume

The kirtle is the basic pull on, t-shaped gown which was worn throughout northern Europe from the dark ages onwards. [http://images.google.com/images?q=medieval+kirtle kirtles] Later kirtles became more fitted and either button or lace up the front. These are often called [[cotehardie]]s.

Kirtles are usually worn over a lightweight underdress called a [[shift]] which can be made by simply adding some panels to a t-tunic to allow for movement. All three of these dresses are straightforward to make either from patterns or from pattern diagrams and are easy to buy from both reenactment and LARP suppliers. Generally these dresses are made from wool, but heavier weights of linen or cotton are also suitable.

These dresses can also be worn with the skirt tucked into the belt at the front to display the shift underneath, or show off a fancy lining.

*The underdress in this pattern [http://www.habithat.co.uk/product_info.php/products_id/8561 Burda Patterns 7977]
*[http://www.habithat.co.uk/product_info.php/products_id/11433 Burda Patterns 7468]
*[http://www.paulmeekins.co.uk/patterns/patternpages/RH017.html Reconstructing History 018]
*[http://www.classhistory.co.uk/Herts%20Fabrics/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=48_49&product_id=344 Authentic Patterns Late Medieval Kirtle]
*[http://www.paulmeekins.co.uk/patterns/patternpages/RH002.html Reconstructing History pattern RH002]
*[http://sallypointer.com/costume-textile-pages/make-a-simple-medieval-dress Basic pattern instructions]
*[http://medievalweddingdresses.ideasforweddings.net/making-medieval-wedding-dresses/basic-kirtle-gown-pattern/ Basic pattern instructions]
*[http://www.neheleniapatterns.com/english/rh143.html Nehelenia Kirtle pattern]
*McCalls Pattern 4490
*McCalls Pattern 4491
*Butterick Pattern 4827

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-25T15:08:16Z

Gereon: Add costuming tipps from costume page

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-25T14:57:44Z

Gereon: Add different clothing styles

{{CaptionedImage|file=Wassail with Scarecrow.jpg|caption=[[Wassail]], the harvest festival|width=350|align=left}}
==Overview==
[[The Marches]] draws strongly on English history from the 12th century through to the War of the Roses for costume, weaponry and armour.

The costume of the Marches has a 'solidity' to it, a worn, lived-in look that contrasts with its neighbour [[Dawn]]'s high romance, gleaming plate and vivid hues. The Marches is Kenneth Brannagh’s Henry V rather than Laurence Olivier’s.

''Also see [[Marches costumes]] and [[Marches icons and artistry]].''
<ic style="clear:both">
We strive to treat the mud with care
with lots of muck and tilling. 
And it repays us thousandfold:
That’s why its so fulfilling. 
And when the day is over,
we’ll drink a glass or more, 
to Marcher mud - its in our blood, ingrained in every pore. 
We’re down to earth,
down and dirty:
Digging for victory.
</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Shanks_Awning.jpg|caption={{ImageBy|BethDooner|Beth Dooner}}|width=350|align=left}}
==Breakdown==
===Feel===
Gritty, solid, practical, traditional, mud, blood, green fields, rural, iron.
===Influences===
Wars of the Roses England, Rangers of Ithilien (Beaters), Cadfael (Monks and Landskeepers).
===Materials===
Wool, calico, linen, leather.
 
{{CaptionedImage|file=Marches_colour_scheme.png|width=400|height=100|align=right}}
===Colours===
Plain flat colours, mostly the soft colours of natural dyes or unbleached
cloth. The palette is autumnal suggesting natural dull blues, greys, browns/
rusts, mustards and greens, dull reds etc. especially at the lower end of
the social scale. Wealthier Marchers may use deeper, brighter shades. 
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesHats.jpg|width=300|align=right}}
==Clothing==
Marchers favour plain clothes, simple [[hood]]s, hose and shirts. Wealthier characters might wear finer [[robe]]s, cotehardies or a simple doublet, but even then plain wool or heavy linen will be more appropriate than fancy patterns or embroidery.
Medieval re-enactments are a great source of inspiration for the look and feel of the Marches territories - although unlike history, its worth noting that Marches society is gender neutral.

Marcher leg wear is practical and slim fitting. Close fitting trousers are practical and easy to come by or make.
[[Hose]], either joined or split, are worn with [[braies]] and a long shirt. An extremely simple untailored cut for shirts fits the Marches very well: Full in the body and sleeve, possibly gathered at neck and wrist.

[[Doublet]]s are popular in the Marches, a snug-fitting buttoned jacket that is shaped and fitted to the body. It can be worn over the shirt or under another layer of clothing. They tend to be short and simple – fancy slash work doesn't really fit the Marchers practical approach.

A woollen or heavy linen overdress
such as a [[kirtle]] or [[cotehardie]] over a shirt
is be a good alternative to shirts and hose.
The look is long, lean and smooth and laced to fit.
Back lacing shows higher status and gives a better line. Side lacing is more common.
It would be rare to see a gathered skirt (common to Tudor kirtles) in the Marches.

Headwear is frequently worn, either a simple cap, or something like a hood and liripipe or chaperon.

Marchers have no pockets, so a pouch is invaluable – [[bollock pouch|bollock]] or [[kidney pouch]]es
or leather bags are perfect. Belts are often very long, wrapped round,
looped at the front and left to dangle.

The [[#Monks and Friars|typical clothing]] of both male and femals [[The_Marches_religious_beliefs|monks and friars]] consists of a [[#Monks and Friars|traditional plain monk's habit]].

{{CaptionedImage|file=Marchers_through_Sentinel_Gate.jpg|title=The Marches march out through the sentinel gate|width=800|height=400|align=left}}
==Weaponry==
The classic Marcher fighting unit is a block of assorted polearms recruited from the yeomanry. Prosperous marchers often wear plate and wield great swords, poleaxes or hammers, shattering gaps open for the billfolk to exploit.

Bows, in particular longbows, are also a common sight among the Marchers units on the battlefield.

===Armour===
Padded [[gambeson]]s or [[leather jack]]s are common for the poor, with a [[harness of plate]] for richer individuals. Households often wear matching [[livery coat]]s, although simple [[sash]]es or badges are also used to denote affiliation. [[Jack chain]]s over a gambeson are ideal for a Marcher yeoman.

===Weapons===
Bows are common. In hand-to-hand combat Marchers favour bills and other pole-arms. Two handed swords are common for richer characters in heavier armour, as well as warhammers, maces or poleaxes. Any historical weapons from the Hundred Years War and the War of the Roses are typical: poleaxes, bills and other polearms are iconic; warhammers, bollock daggers, axes, falchions, mauls, and improvised weapons based on farm equipment are all carried by some.

====Shields====
Large shields are much less common than in other nations; shield-walls are seen as a tactic best left behind in Dawn. Marchers who have a good reason not to use a pole-arm or a great sword, such as martial Landskeepers fearing arrows, or skirmish groups protecting the flanks will often use a small buckler to go alongside their weapon of choice.
 

==Marcher household==
A prosperous [[Marcher household]] will wear often wear matching livery coats, although simple sashes or badges are also used to denote affiliation. Padded jacks are common for the poor with a plain harness of plate for wealthier individuals.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Kings Stoke Fighters.jpg|width=600|Marcher Household arrayed for battle.|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Balston Fighting.jpg|width=600|House Balston|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarcherFamily.jpg|width=600|In livery from a young age|height=200|align=left}}
 

==Yeomen==
Poor [[Yeoman of the Marches|Yeomen]] may wear just a plain coloured jack or padded gambeson as their only armour.
Wealthier Yeomen usually have livery coats in their Household colours and mail or plate over the
top if they have it.
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen1.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen2.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen3.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Erwillian Mann.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=CullachMarching.jpg|width=500|height=250}}

==Stewards==
The head of a household, a [[steward]], may wear richer colours, but most likely in home grown wool not rarer silk. Wealthy Marchers are often seen in full harness of plate in battle.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Henry Talbot in Plate.jpg|title=Film: Ironclad|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards2.jpg|title=Film: Ironclad|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards3.jpg|title=Film: Snow White and the Huntsman|width=187|height=250}}

==Beaters==
[[The_Marches_military_concerns#Beaters|Beaters]] are skilled trackers and gamekeepers. They watch the borders of the Marches. They are inspired by the classic British archers of the period mixed with the Rangers of Ithilien from Lord of the Rings.
Beaters usually wear lighter armour, either just a padded or leather jack or else a leather tunic like the ones worn by the Rangers in Lord of the Rings.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Beater Andrew Daybell.jpg|caption=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|title=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|width=350|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Morgan Archer.jpg|title=Morgan Archer, House Talbot. Beater, hunter and game keeper.|caption=Morgan Archer (Judith Ressler)|width=220|height=200}}
== Aldermen and Townsfolk==
Many [[The Marches economic interests|aldermen]] take great pride in their ceremonial chains of office, sometimes referred to as "Chains of Prosperity". Some go so far as to commission them as magical items, such as an [[Alderman's Edge]].
{{CaptionedImage|file=Friar Alan.jpg|width=187|height=250|align=right}}
==Monks and Friars==
Both male and female [[The Marches religious beliefs|monks and friars]] wear traditional plain [[monk's habit]] either
in dark colours, or white with a dark [[scapular]].
A simple brown [[cassock]] works well but it might also be seen in black or
grey. A more complex arrangement with dark scapular over white undergarments is also a popular choice.

A [[chasuble]] or [[cowl]] is often worn over the habit, in particular during the cold seasons.
 
==Landskeepers==
Some [[The Marches magical traditions#Landskeepers|landskeepers]] wear [[robe]]s, similar to the monk, but a [[jerkin]], shirt and hose, with rolled-up sleeves is just as good an alternative. A landskeeper is well used to hard work in the fields and their look reflects that.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Landkeeper.jpg|width=402|height=200}}

==Marcher children==
{{CaptionedImage|file=CM-130726-0034.jpg|width=187|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MG0690.jpg|width=400|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesChild4.jpg|width=187|height=200|caption=Costume by [http://www.cloakedanddaggered.com/menu/childrenswear/ Cloak'd and Dagger'd]}}
</span12>
</row-fluid>

==Things you're unlikely to see==
* Don't expect 'bling' in the Marches, even the wealthy are likely to be subtle - with wealth displayed in linings and button detail, not slashed sleeves, full gathered fabrics, or rich embroidery or brocade.
* You won't find anyone worrying about hand stitching, whether that coat is too long for 1389 or what your underwear is made of. The Marches is a historically inspired culture, not a historically accurate one.
* There are no modesty guidelines in the Marches and gender roles don't follow the historical pattern - long skirts and laced dresses are a choice made by some not an expectation of all.
[[Category:The Marches]]
[[Category:Nations]]

File:Richard Talbot in Plate.jpg

2016-04-25T14:32:11Z

Gereon: Add proper attribution

Steward Henry Talbot (Nik Gaukroger) and the Talbot banner 
Autumn Equinox 2015 
{{Category:Photos:OliverFacey}}

The Marches look and feel

2016-04-25T14:30:15Z

Gereon: /* Stewards */

{{CaptionedImage|file=Wassail with Scarecrow.jpg|caption=[[Wassail]], the harvest festival|width=350|align=left}}
==Overview==
[[The Marches]] draws strongly on English history from the 12th century through to the War of the Roses for costume, weaponry and armour.

The costume of the Marches has a 'solidity' to it, a worn, lived-in look that contrasts with its neighbour [[Dawn]]'s high romance, gleaming plate and vivid hues. The Marches is Kenneth Brannagh’s Henry V rather than Laurence Olivier’s.

''Also see [[Marches costumes]] and [[Marches icons and artistry]].''
<ic style="clear:both">
We strive to treat the mud with care
with lots of muck and tilling. 
And it repays us thousandfold:
That’s why its so fulfilling. 
And when the day is over,
we’ll drink a glass or more, 
to Marcher mud - its in our blood, ingrained in every pore. 
We’re down to earth,
down and dirty:
Digging for victory.
</ic>
{{CaptionedImage|file=Shanks_Awning.jpg|caption={{ImageBy|BethDooner|Beth Dooner}}|width=350|align=left}}
==Breakdown==
===Feel===
Gritty, solid, practical, traditional, mud, blood, green fields, rural, iron.
===Influences===
Wars of the Roses England, Rangers of Ithilien (Beaters), Cadfael (Monks and Landskeepers).
===Materials===
Wool, calico, linen, leather.
 
{{CaptionedImage|file=Marches_colour_scheme.png|width=400|height=100|align=right}}
===Colours===
Plain flat colours, mostly the soft colours of natural dyes or unbleached
cloth. The palette is autumnal suggesting natural dull blues, greys, browns/
rusts, mustards and greens, dull reds etc. especially at the lower end of
the social scale. Wealthier Marchers may use deeper, brighter shades. 
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesHats.jpg|width=300|align=right}}
==Clothing==
Marchers favour plain clothes, simple [[hood]]s, hose and shirts. Wealthier characters might wear finer [[robe]]s, cotehardies or a simple doublet, but even then plain wool or heavy linen will be more appropriate than fancy patterns or embroidery.
Medieval re-enactments are a great source of inspiration for the look and feel of the Marches territories - although unlike history, its worth noting that Marches society is gender neutral.

Marcher leg wear is practical and slim fitting. Close fitting trousers are practical and easy to come by or make.
[[Hose]], either joined or split, are worn with [[braies]] and a long shirt. An extremely simple untailored cut for shirts fits the Marches very well: Full in the body and sleeve, possibly gathered at neck and wrist.

[[Doublet]]s are popular in the Marches, a snug-fitting buttoned jacket that is shaped and fitted to the body. It can be worn over the shirt or under another layer of clothing. They tend to be short and simple – fancy slash work doesn't really fit the Marchers practical approach.

A woollen or heavy linen overdress
such as a [[kirtle]] or [[cotehardie]] over a shirt
is be a good alternative to shirts and hose.
The look is long, lean and smooth and laced to fit.
Back lacing shows higher status and gives a better line. Side lacing is more common.
It would be rare to see a gathered skirt (common to Tudor kirtles) in the Marches.

Headwear is frequently worn, either a simple cap, or something like a hood and liripipe or chaperon.

Marchers have no pockets, so a pouch is invaluable – [[bollock pouch|bollock]] or [[kidney pouch]]es
or leather bags are perfect. Belts are often very long, wrapped round,
looped at the front and left to dangle.

The [[#Monks and Friars|typical clothing]] of both male and femals [[The_Marches_religious_beliefs|monks and friars]] consists of a [[#Monks and Friars|traditional plain monk's habit]].
{{CaptionedImage|file=Marchers_through_Sentinel_Gate.jpg|title=The Marches march out through the sentinel gate|caption={{ImageBy|Judith Taylor}}|width=800|height=400|align=left}}

==Weaponry==
The classic Marcher fighting unit is a block of assorted polearms recruited from the yeomanry. Prosperous marchers often wear plate and wield great swords, poleaxes or hammers, shattering gaps open for the billfolk to exploit.

Bows, in particular longbows, are also a common sight among the Marchers units on the battlefield.

===Armour===
Padded [[gambeson]]s or [[leather jack]]s are common for the poor, with a [[harness of plate]] for richer individuals. Households often wear matching [[livery coat]]s, although simple [[sash]]es or badges are also used to denote affiliation. [[Jack chain]]s over a gambeson are ideal for a Marcher yeoman.

===Weapons===
Bows are common. In hand-to-hand combat Marchers favour bills and other pole-arms. Two handed swords are common for richer characters in heavier armour, as well as warhammers, maces or poleaxes. Any historical weapons from the Hundred Years War and the War of the Roses are typical: poleaxes, bills and other polearms are iconic; warhammers, bollock daggers, axes, falchions, mauls, and improvised weapons based on farm equipment are all carried by some.

====Shields====
Large shields are much less common than in other nations; shield-walls are seen as a tactic best left behind in Dawn. Marchers who have a good reason not to use a pole-arm or a great sword, such as martial Landskeepers fearing arrows, or skirmish groups protecting the flanks will often use a small buckler to go alongside their weapon of choice.
 

==Marcher household==
A prosperous [[Marcher household]] will wear often wear matching livery coats, although simple sashes or badges are also used to denote affiliation. Padded jacks are common for the poor with a plain harness of plate for wealthier individuals.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Kings Stoke Fighters.jpg|width=600|Marcher Household arrayed for battle.|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Balston Fighting.jpg|width=600|House Balston|height=200|align=left}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarcherFamily.jpg|width=600|In livery from a young age|height=200|align=left}}
 

==Yeomen==
Poor [[Yeoman of the Marches|Yeomen]] may wear just a plain coloured jack or padded gambeson as their only armour.
Wealthier Yeomen usually have livery coats in their Household colours and mail or plate over the
top if they have it.
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen1.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen2.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesYeomen3.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Erwillian Mann.jpg|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=CullachMarching.jpg|width=500|height=250}}

==Stewards==
The head of a household, a [[steward]], may wear richer colours, but most likely in home grown wool not rarer silk. Wealthy Marchers are often seen in full harness of plate in battle.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Henry Talbot in Plate.jpg|title=Film: Ironclad|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards2.jpg|title=Film: Ironclad|width=187|height=250}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesStewards3.jpg|title=Film: Snow White and the Huntsman|width=187|height=250}}

==Beaters==
[[The_Marches_military_concerns#Beaters|Beaters]] are skilled trackers and gamekeepers. They watch the borders of the Marches. They are inspired by the classic British archers of the period mixed with the Rangers of Ithilien from Lord of the Rings.
Beaters usually wear lighter armour, either just a padded or leather jack or else a leather tunic like the ones worn by the Rangers in Lord of the Rings.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Beater Andrew Daybell.jpg|caption=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|title=William Bragg of the Boundarymen (Andrew Daybell)|width=350|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=Morgan Archer.jpg|title=Morgan Archer, House Talbot. Beater, hunter and game keeper.|caption=Morgan Archer (Judith Ressler)|width=220|height=200}}
== Aldermen and Townsfolk==
Many [[The Marches economic interests|aldermen]] take great pride in their ceremonial chains of office, sometimes referred to as "Chains of Prosperity". Some go so far as to commission them as magical items, such as an [[Alderman's Edge]].
{{CaptionedImage|file=Friar Alan.jpg|width=187|height=250|align=right}}
==Monks and Friars==
Both male and female [[The Marches religious beliefs|monks and friars]] wear traditional plain [[monk's habit]] either
in dark colours, or white with a dark [[scapular]].
A simple brown [[cassock]] works well but it might also be seen in black or
grey. A more complex arrangement with dark scapular over white undergarments is also a popular choice.

A [[chasuble]] or [[cowl]] is often worn over the habit, in particular during the cold seasons.
 
==Landskeepers==
Some [[The Marches magical traditions#Landskeepers|landskeepers]] wear [[robe]]s, similar to the monk, but a [[jerkin]], shirt and hose, with rolled-up sleeves is just as good an alternative. A landskeeper is well used to hard work in the fields and their look reflects that.
{{CaptionedImage|file=Landkeeper.jpg|width=402|height=200}}

==Marcher children==
{{CaptionedImage|file=CM-130726-0034.jpg|width=187|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MG0690.jpg|width=400|height=200}}
{{CaptionedImage|file=MarchesChild4.jpg|width=187|height=200|caption=Costume by [http://www.cloakedanddaggered.com/menu/childrenswear/ Cloak'd and Dagger'd]}}
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==Things you're unlikely to see==
* Don't expect 'bling' in the Marches, even the wealthy are likely to be subtle - with wealth displayed in linings and button detail, not slashed sleeves, full gathered fabrics, or rich embroidery or brocade.
* You won't find anyone worrying about hand stitching, whether that coat is too long for 1389 or what your underwear is made of. The Marches is a historically inspired culture, not a historically accurate one.
* There are no modesty guidelines in the Marches and gender roles don't follow the historical pattern - long skirts and laced dresses are a choice made by some not an expectation of all.
[[Category:The Marches]]
[[Category:Nations]]

File:Richard Talbot in Plate.jpg

2016-04-25T14:29:05Z

Gereon: {{Category:Photos:OliverFacey}}

Category:Photos:OliverFacey

2016-04-25T14:28:44Z

Gereon: Make Category a template

<noinclude>Oliver Facey

[http://oliverfacey.co.uk Website]

Oliver is also on [https://www.patreon.com/oliverfacey?ty=h patreon] if you want to support his work directly

Please include the following text in the description field when uploading files by this author to the wiki: 

''<nowiki>{{Category:Photos:OliverFacey}}
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</noinclude><includeonly>[[Category:Photos:OliverFacey]] [[:Category:Photos:OliverFacey|Image by Oliver Facey]]</includeonly>