Gauntlet

Articulated metal glove of the medieval knight

The gauntlet was an articulated metal glove worn by European knights from the 14th to 16th centuries to protect the hands and wrists in combat. Its intricate construction of overlapping plates allowed independent movement of each finger joint, making it the most technically demanding piece of a full suit of armor. Two main types existed — the hourglass gauntlet with a broad plate covering the back of the hand, and the finger gauntlet with individual protection for each digit. The phrase "throwing down the gauntlet" originates from the medieval custom of casting one's glove before an opponent to issue a challenge to duel.