Maximilian I (1459-1519) was a pivotal figure in European history, recognized for his efforts to fortify the Holy Roman Empire and his significant influence on the evolution of modern European warfare and armor. Among the notable artifacts from his era are the gauntlets, which are part of a broader set known as "Maximilian armor." This armor, believed to have been crafted around 1490 by Lorenz Helmschmid, a renowned German armorer from Augsburg, is distinguished by its intricate fluting—a hallmark of armor from Maximilian's reign. Made of steel, these gauntlets were designed to protect the hands and forearms while providing the necessary flexibility for combat. Today, the collection is preserved at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.