BINDING AND HARNESSING OF THE LEGS
Several methods were utilized for the binding and harnessing of the legs on servant-slave subjects to immobilize them or limit their mobility, such as: ** Several wraps of rope or leather thongs tied and knotted around the ankles and/or knees ** Leather buckled binding straps placed about the ankles and/or knees ** "Unified" type leg boots for securing the feet and lower legs together as a unit ** Full-Case Leg-Wrap Binding Harness which bound the upper and lower legs together as a unit. These various methods are detailed below.
ANKLE BINDING BELT - STRAPS
A simple ankle binding belt strap is commonly used to secure subjects on a temporary or long-term basis. While such ankle-binding can be accomplished with a tie-off and knotting of a couple of wraps of rope or multiple layers of leather thong around the ankles, most Masters prefer to secure their subjects with ankle belts that can be quite stylish and decorated, particularly when the subject was placed into Semper-Securum service or was to be on display or seen by the public.
A stylish ankle binding belt-strap made up of two layers of leather held together with rivet studs and featuring a large decorative brass buckle. The subject is wearing high calf boots under his long dress skirt and is in long-term ankle bondage, probably as a Semper-Securum Servant. The strap tongue has been anchored and secured down to the strap with a rivet-stud preventing the disengagement of the buckle. harnlower-001,002,003,
A plate-decorated ankle binding belt in use with high calf boots and medium-length dress skirt. This particular size and style of binding belt is designed to be employed when the subject is wearing lower leg greaves, which are absent here. See below for this belt in use with lower leg greaves worn over and around the calf boots. Note how the belt tongue is tucked into a second buckle-frame to the right of the main securing buckle, where the tongue is tightly retained and is not easily withdrawn from the frame. harnlower-040,041,042,043
A typical plate-decorated "ankle binding" belt used when the subject is wearing lower leg calf greaves over his boots. Here the subject is also attired with stylish decorated leather wings mounted to the greaves and generally worn with the short or medium length dress skirt. The two right-hand rear views show the belt tongue being retained by a second buckle frame to the right, with the rear of the high calf boots and the mounting straps for the greaves also visible. Binders do not like having to emplace this ankle belt when the subject is wearing greaves, as there is generally little space below the greave to emplace the binding belt. Some binders found it easier to remove the greaves to install the binding belt and then remount the greaves, if needed. harnlower-005,006,007,008 300 high
BOOT BINDING STRAPS OR "BOOT TIES"
Boot Binding Straps, more commonly referred to as "Boot Ties", are a simple, but very effective and secure means of more totally immobilizing the feet of a "leg-bound" subject. It is short buckled strap that is secured over and around the insteps and bottom soles of the wearer's boots to firmly bind his boots, and thus his feet together into a single tightly bound unit. A "Boot Tie Strap", when used in conjunction with "ankle-bondage", can effectively provide the same function of binding and immobilizing the subject's feet and legs as that obtained by the use of a "Unified Leg-Binding Boot" or so-called "Unified Boot", but at a small fraction of a "Unified Boot's cost. With the wearer's boots and feet being firmly bound together as a unit by the "strap", he is unable to move or wiggle his feet in an attempt to move about or "work-out" of his bondage. It is not known just when and where the "Boot Tie Strap" first came into use, but versions of it are known to have been used by slave traders and brokers prior to the introduction of the "Unified" Boot. The Provinces of Maria, Marathon and Sardonia, and other so-called "Class-4 - Slave Holding" Provinces and Regions were also early users of Boot Binding Straps. "Boot Straps" were commonly used on "Semper-Securum" ("always secured or bound") Servant-Subjects and as decorative enhancements on "bound and tied" servant-slaves being exhibited at Regional and Annual Sovereign's and Binder's Conclaves. They are still widely utilized when a "low-cost" maximum level of foot bondage is desired, particularly when a bound subject is to be left "un-attended" for an extended period of time, such as during "punishment by bondage" or when being transported as an "un-accompanied slave in transit".
Two views showing the application of "Boot Binding Straps" or so-called "Boot-Ties" that functioned to firmly tie the wearer's boots and feet together for added security and suppression of foot and leg movement. ** LEFT - A basic and economical "Boot Tie Strap", produced by the Micor Harness Works ("MHW"), being used in conjunction with a conventional "studded ankle-bondage" strap, which is buckled behind the subject's ankles. The "MHW" was the largest supplier of "Boot Tie Straps", which were used in most provinces. ** RIGHT - A wider and more substantial Boot-Strap that matches the decorative and non-functional vertical buckled strap mounted onto the front of an "SL" Style "Straight-Leg" Binding Harness, which most likely is being worn by a "Semper-Securum" Subject. The "SL" Harness immobilizes the subject's legs and feet very effectively and the Boot Strap has probably been emplaced more as a decorative element rather than as an added measure of security. harnlower-080,081 June-2009 400h
Illustration of a servitude subject that has had been "knee, leg, ankle and boot-strap bound" with an extensive amount of heavy leather "binding thongs" in preparation to be transported as a "slave in transit". This individual was brought by his master to the carriage ticket and shipping office with just his arms and hands bound. The carriage company would not except the servant for transport unless his legs were also bound and tied. Hence, for an additional charge, his master had him turned over to a "tier-binder" employed by the carriage company to have his legs bound and tied to be in compliance with carriers slave transport bondage policy. Note that the "tier-binder" has not only firmly bound the subject's ankles with several thong wraps, but has also tied his feet and boots together in "boot-strap" fashion for added binding strength and security. The slave-subject is wearing tall "thigh-high" leg boots and the "bondage" has been carried up and around the subject's lower legs and tall boots with several additional wraps of the binding thongs. The bondage operation was completed with several more thong wraps above the knees, where the thongs ends were firmly and tightly tied-off and knotted. Although this bondage may appear to be sloppy and haphazard, it remained firm and tight for over 32 hours, with the subject being separately tied-down to the bed of the wagon during transit. When the subject was unloaded the following day for delivery to his new master, he was found to be still tightly bound and secure. harnlower-082 June-2009 400h
Randoria Province "Man at Arms" Servant "Oberon" is seen in a kneeling position while binding the ankles and boots of slave-servant "Sarnto", who is being "returned for trade" to his former broker. "Sarnto", due to his insubordinate attitude and poor work performance, was deemed to be unacceptable during his initial 30 day period of probation, and failed to adequately improve after being granted a "second chance" 15 day term of probation, hence, he is being "bound and tied" by "Oberon" prior to being picked-up by the broker. "Oberon" is using so-called "Noose-Binders" or "NB's" or "Newbee's" to effect the bondage. The "Noose-Binder" that will be used to bind "Sarnto's knees is seen to the Right. The "NB" is a very effective, low-cost and easy to use binder and is simply a knotted loop or noose along with a variable length "Tail" or "Runner" of rope. The "noose" is slipped-on and drawn tight and then the "tail-runner" is used to make additional binding wraps around the body members being bound, after which the "tail-runner" is then tied-off and knotted. Note that "Oberon" has used a portion of the "tail-runner" to "boot-strap" together "Sarnto's boots and feet, thus effecting a tighter and more secure leg bondage. "Oberon is seen attired in his full-dress "Warlord" outfit prior to attending a formal Evening Reception with Sovereign "Randor". It is unusual that "Oberon" would be attired in "full-dress" while performing a mundane "tier-binder" task, however as the broker was scheduled to pick-up "Sarnto" during, or very soon after the Reception, Sovereign "Randor" instructed "Oberon" to bind-up "Sarnto" before departing for the Reception. As it turned out, the broker did not arrive until the next morning, so "Sarnto" was moved to "Oberon's" quarters, where his bondage could be checked from time to time, and adjusted or tightened as needed, as he laid "tied, bound and gaged" on the floor. However, with "Oberon's" tier-binder expertise and one retightening at is his knees during the night, Sarnto's bindings remained tight and secure through the night into the next morning when he was finally taken away and a replacement slave was delivered by the broker. Sovereign "Randor" received an extra monetary premium from the broker for having "Sarnto" already "gaged, bound and tied" prior to being picked-up. harnlower-083 June-2009 800h x 567w
LEFT - Having finished binding slave "Sarnto's" ankles, Man-Servant "Oberon" has slipped another "Noose-Binder" up and around "Sarnto's" knees and had drawn the noose up-tight in the first step of firmly binding the slave's knees. The "tail-runner" portion of the "NB" Binder will be looped two more times around "Sarnto's" knees. The binding ropes will then be pulled tight, and tied-off and knotted to complete the knee binding operation. ** RIGHT - With a total of three binding rope wraps around "Sarnto's" knees, "Oberon" is performing the final "tie-off and knotting" to complete the binding and tying of "Sarnto's" legs prior to his delivery to the slave trader-broker. harnlower-084,085 June-2009 400h
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THE "UNIFIED" LEG AND ANKLE BINDING BOOT
The "Unified Leg and Ankle Binding-Boot" or "Unified-Boot", was a set of shoe-boots that were joined together above the ankle with a single high-rise shaft that encompassed both legs as a unit. These so-called "Unified-Boots" could be used as a lower cost alternative to a "Full Case Leg Binding Harness" for leg-bondage and largely eliminated the need for separate and possibly un-sightly ankle and knee binding-straps, as the single leg-shaft of the "unified boot" served to bind the legs together. They offered the advantage of providing a stylish form of leg-bondage yielding a "clean and un-cluttered" appearance, and the absence of ankle and knee bindings made it less obvious that the subject was "leg-bound". "Unified-Boots" however, had to be sized to the subject's feet and custom-fitted for a proper and tight fit around his legs. They could also be difficult to emplace and remove from the subject's legs. The initial versions of "unified-boots" did not offer as tight and secure a bondage of the legs as would separate ankle and knee binding-straps, but later designs largely corrected this shortcoming. Two methods were employed by some owners to obtain a tighter and more secure leg bondage with early design "unified-boots": = Applying an ankle binding-strap externally around the outside of the "boot", which defeated the original "unified-boot" design concept : = Or the more fashionable, but troublesome, solution was to bind the subject's ankles prior to placing his feet into the boot so that his ankles would be firmly and internally bound, out of sight, within the "boot", thereby maintaining the "unified boot's" intended "clean and smooth" external appearance. However, the use of an internal binding-strap made the placement the subject's already bound legs into the "boot" quite difficult and the later removal of the "boot" was equally troublesome. Therefore, the use of an internal binding-strap within a "unified-boot" was mostly utilized only for appearance or maximum security reasons or when the bondage was intended to be long-term.
The concept of the "Unified-Boot" was introduced by the Micor Harness Works and later "unified-boots" were also produced by the Royal Randorian Workshop, Ferrum Harness Shop and other makers as well. The "unified-boot" was adopted in many provinces, such as Micor, Micon, Maria, Sardonia, Vestia, Ferra-Solum, Terra-Ferrum, Randoria, Hamaria and Marathon, and in other provinces, where they were especially favored for the leg-bondage of Semper-Securum class servant-slaves. Due to their pleasing and a "less obvious leg-bound" appearance, they were also used on servant-subjects who were to be placed on display and exhibition duty during formal occasions and competition situations. "Unified-Boots" were generally available with custom and sometimes lavish ornamentation applied to the boot's casing as the buyer desired or specified. Exhibition contests and competitions were frequently held during the Annual Tiers and Binder's Conclave and on other occasions at which awards and recognition would be given for the "most ingenious application of the unified-boot" and/or for the "most lavishly decorated boot casings".
Although the use of ankle and knee binding-straps remains the common form of leg restraint for "non-display" and "day-to-day" leg-bondage, the Unified-Boot has remained quite popular and has largely supplanted the use of the Full-Case Leg-Wrap Harness for leg-bondage in most provinces, except for very formal occasions and those owners who continue to prefer the Full-Leg-Harness for its appearance and security of bondage.
The Micor Harness Works in the Micor Province, was the originator of the so-called "unified-boot" concept and was the primary supplier of "unified-boots", which they termed the "Uni-Boot", as shown above. Note the "boot's" clean and "not obviously leg-bound" appearance. Similar versions of the "unified-boot" were produced by suppliers in other provinces, but Micor's "Uni-Boot" was the most popular and widely used version. legboots-110,111,112,113 April-2007 350 high
Views of the "Phase-2" improved version of the "Uni-Boot" produced by the Micor Works in response to the Randorain Workshop produced "Mono-Boot" and to correct the shortcomings of its initial "Uni-Boot" design. The Phase-2 Uni-Boot had a more robust and stronger construction with a leg-binding strap riveted around the top of the leg-casing, which effectively bound the legs together to provide a tighter and more secure bondage without the use of a separate external or internal binding-strap. This particular boot features a decorative medallion affixed at the top-front of the leg casing. The Micor Phase-2 "Uni-Boot" became the most popular and widely used version of the "unified-leg-binding-boot". legboots-114,115,116,117 April-2007 350 high
A recognized, but accepted, drawback of the improved versions of the stronger and tighter fitting "unified-leg-binding-boots" was that they were more rigid and less flexible and therefore could be more difficult to emplace onto and remove from a subject's legs and feet.
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ROYAL RANDORIAN WORKSHOP "MONO" AND "MAGNUM" STYLE UNIFIED BOOTS
Views of the Randorian Workshop's first version of the "unified-boot", known as their "Mono-Boot", shown here with optional medallion decoration on the front of the leg shaft casing. It has a somewhat higher leg-shaft and was the second most popular "unified-boot" after Micor's Phase-2 "Uni-Boot". The "Mono-Boot" was produced primarily for use in the Provinces of Randoria, Hamaria, Marathon, Vestia and other allied provinces. The Randorian Workshop later introduced an improved "unified-boot", which they termed the "Magnum-Boot". See below for details on the "Magnum-Boot". legboots-120,121,122,123 April-2007 350 high
Views of an early version of the "Magnum-Boot" produced by the Randorian Workshop in an effort to improve on the "unified-boot" concept. Previous "unified-boot" designs were basically two separate shoe sections incorporating a single leg shaft to enclose the subject's lower legs and the feet together as a unit. The "Magnum" was actually one large "monolithic" shoe and leg-boot unit, big enough to enclose both of the feet and lower legs within a single toe-box, heel enclosure and leg shaft casing. This design provided for a much tighter and secure binding of the feet, ankles and legs, making the use of a separate external or internal ankle binding-strap unnecessary. Note the single leather-bound "in-step" and "heel" portions of the "Boot" which serves to firmly bind both feet and heels together, making the whole boot structure stronger, tighter and more secure. Although the Randorian "Magnum-Boot" was recognized as an enhancement and improvement of the original "unified-boot" design, only a limited number of "Magnum-Boots" were produced, as most owners found the earlier and lower-cost Micor "Uni-Boots" and Randorian "Mono-Boots" satisfactory for their purposes. Also, some owners continued to prefer the more conventional separate shoe appearance of the "Uni-Boot" and "Mono-Boot" over the "monolithic" and slab-like design of the "Magnum-Boot". legboots-130,131,132,133,134 April-2007 300 high
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ABOVE - Close-up Front and Rear views of the early version of the Randorian "Magnum" style unified-boot. Note the wide "instep" covering both feet and the "unified-heel" design which encloses and firmly binds the heels together. BELOW - Interior views of the "Magnum" Boot. Note the large single wrap casing for enclosing both legs as one, which was common to all unified boot designs. The "Mono-Boot" had separate "heel-pockets", while the "Magnum-Boot" featured two individual "toe-boxes" within the "in-step", as well as separate "heel pockets", which served to better anchor, bind and immobilize the feet and heels together inside the "Boot". A number of "Magnum-Boots" were produced with custom decoration and ornamentation applied as the buyer specified. legboots-125,126,127,128 April-2007 350 high
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RANDORIAN WORKSHOP PHASE-2 "MAGNUM" STYLE UNIFIED TYPE BOOT
An array of views showing the Randorian Workshop Phase-2 "Magnum Boot", which was an upgrade and improvement on the earlier Phase-1 boot. The Phase-2 has a much stronger construction and is more secure being assembled with numerous large rivet-studs and heavier weight leather. The Randorian "Phase-2 Magnum" was generally recognized as the premier example of the "unified-boot" concept, however, due to its higher cost, it was not widely adopted and was purchased mostly for use at display and dress occasions and during exhibition events. It was also rather massive and heavy, weighing about ten pounds, un-adorned, and several pounds more if lavishly decorated with heavy pewter medallions and emblems. This extra weight was generally not a concern as a subject wearing a "Magnum Boot" was not expected to be moving around to any great extent, if at all. The "Phase-2 Magnum" was sometimes referred to as the "Mummy-Boot" due to the "mummy-like" appearance it gave a subject's legs, particularly when a long skirt covered the top portion of the boot. The "Phase-2 Magnum" provided for a tight and secure bondage of the feet and lower legs and was intended primarily for use on Semper-Securum class servant-slaves. However, the Phase-2 or other styles of unified-boots could also be observed being worn by regular duty servant-slaves when it was desired to limit the mobility of the subject, particularly during formal and other exhibition occasions. Although "unified-boots" provided secure leg-bondage, note that for additional security, this subject has also been "knee-bound" with a stylish decorated knee-binding belt. The RRW continued to produce the Phase-1 "Magnum" Boot, which remained popular due to its lower cost. The RRW's "Magnum" boots were frequently ordered with custom and stylish decoration, as seen further below. legboots-141,142,143,144,145 July-2007 300 high
Views of a highly ornamented Randorian Phase-2 "Magnum" boot with stylish medallions, plates and "V's" placed on the front, back and sides of the boot's casing. Note how the decoration on this custom-ordered boot is similar to that on the subject's medium length skirt. This subject is probably in Semper-Securum service and his Master obviously takes pride in the appearance of his captive servant. legboots-150,151,152 July-2007 300 high
Some owners attempted to utilize unified boots in conjunction with upper-leg "cuisse" armor with varying degrees of success. At LEFT - Micor Works "Uni-Boots" generally worked well with upper-leg "cuisse" armor due to the boot's lower over-all height. However, at RIGHT - The RRW Phase-2 "Magnum" boot does not work well when worn with upper-leg cuisse armor because the "Magnum" boot's leg shaft is too high and interferes with the proper positioning and wearing of the "cuisse" armor sections. Therefore, due to their higher leg shafts, RRW "Mono" and "Magnum" brand unified-boots were not practical for use with upper-leg "cuisse" armor, except on taller subjects with long legs. legboots-153,154 July-2007 300 high
An array of views showing some of the standard and custom ornamentation and decorations applied to RRW Phase-2 "Magnum" boots by special order from the buyer. legboots-160,161,162,163,164,165,166,167 July-2007 250 high
ABOVE - Close-up detail views of the Randorian Workshop Phase-2 "Magnum" unified-boot showing the numerous rivets used in its robust construction. Note the single large toe-box and massive "unified" heel encompassing both feet as a unit, providing very secure and tight bondage of the feet and ankles. *** BELOW - Views showing the interior and single bottom sole of the Randorian Workshop Phase-2 "Magnum" style unified type boot. Note the two separate heel pockets for the feet and the numerous rivet-studs used in the boot's assembly. legboots-146,147,148,149 July-2007 350 high
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WINGED - GREAVE ATTACHMENT FOR USE WITH "UNIFIED" BOOTS
The Royal Randorian Workshop (RRW) offered an optional extra-cost "winged" greave for attachment to their "Mono-Boot" and "Magnum-Boot" brand of "unified" ankle and leg binding boots, as well as for use with "unified" type boots supplied by other suppliers. These "greave-wings" were designed to be mounted around the front and sides of the boot and were secured in-place around the leg-shaft of the boot with buckled-straps at the rear between the "wings". These popular "winged attachments" were available in "basic" versions "off-the-shelf" in small, medium and large sizes to accommodate a variety of boot sizes, but to obtain the best fit and appearance, many were custom-made and sized to the specific boot on which they were to be mounted. In most instances, the further decoration of the winged-greave unit was left to the purchaser, unless the buyer specified a more elaborate adornment and/or supplied the decorative elements to the RRW for them to apply when assembling and finishing the greave-unit. In lieu of conventional and sometimes unsightly ankle binding straps, or to cover such binding straps, many owner-masters elected to use these winged-greave attachments for the "dress-binding" of the ankles and lower legs of their servant-subjects who were wearing conventional and separate (non-unified) leg boots. These winged-greaves became quite popular, particularly for use on Semper-Securum (always-secured or bound) subjects, as well as for the "dress-bondage" of servant-subjects wearing wither "unified" or regular (separate-non-unified) leg boots during formal events and exhibition occasions. Although it could be used, on its own, to bind and secure a subject's ankles and legs, the "winged-greave" was largely decorative and was intended to provide only a measure of leg restraint, rather than a tight or long-term secure bondage of the ankles and legs. Ironically, although the RRW delivered only a combined total of about 30 sets of their Mono-Boots and Magnum-Boots, they provided over twice that number of winged-greave attachments for use with their own "Mono" and "Magnum" unified boots as well as their competitor's unified boot, the Micor Workshop "Uni-Boot", and for use as "dress-bondage" over and around conventional (non-unified) leg boots.
Views of the basic "winged-greave" attachment as offered by the RRW with medallion and stud decoration. Note the alternate side-to-side mounting of the securing straps and buckles. This particular "small" size unit has only three studs at the top of the wings, while the "medium" and "large" sized units had four studs across the top of the wings and an additional stud along the sides. The further adornment of the winged-greave was generally left to the purchaser, unless the buyer specified or supplied a more elaborate scheme of decoration. legboots-168,169 Aug-2007 225 high
The "basic" Randorian Workshop "Winged-Greave" attachment mounted on a Randorian "Magnum-Boot" This modestly decorated version with RRW standard medallions on the front panel and plain studded wings was quite popular and allowed buyers to enhance its simple, but elegant appearance with additional adornment of their choosing. Note that the greave wraps around the front and sides of the boot covering the boot's front panel, and is secured with two buckle-straps between the wings at the rear of the boot. The RRW offered their Winged-Greave in various styles ranging from plain black leather without any medallion or stud decoration to lavish adornment as specified by the buyer. legboots-180,181,182 Aug-2007 300 high
Views of a Randorian "Winged-Greave" in use as leg-bondage on a servant-subject wearing conventional (non-unified) tall calf-boots. The winged-greave unit is providing the sole means of bondage, as separate ankle and knee binding straps have not been applied. legboots-183,184,185,186 Aug-2007 300 high
CALF WRAP - LOWER - LEG - BINDING GREAVE
The so-called "Lower-Leg Binding-Greave" came into use as a way to enhance and "dress-up" the lower-leg appearance of "leg-bound" subjects, primarily for when they were standing "on-display" during "Dress-Exhibition" duty-service. A "Binding-Greave" also gives the impression (at reduced cost and effort), that the subject is fitted with a Unified Leg-Binding Boot and provides an added measure of lower-leg bondage, in addition to allowing the subject's ankle-binding and boots to be removed while his legs remain secured inside the Binding-Greave. A "Calf-Wrap Binding-Greave" normally allowed the wearer to sit-down, as it did not generally extend above the knees to encumber them from bending. "Lower-Leg Binding-Greaves" were popular for use on "Semper-Securum" (always-secured or bound) Subjects, and as "dress-display" appliances in many Provinces and Regions and were frequently made-up by the Owner-Master's "harness-master", but they were also available in various sizes and styles from the commercial harness workshops.
Front and Rear Views of an "ankle-bound" subject fitted with a Calf-Wrap - Lower-Leg Binding-Greave. The subject's legs and ankles are primarily secured and bound using an Ankle Binding Belt. In addition, his feet have been bound together with a Boot-Strap placed over and around the insteps of his boots. The Lower-Leg Binding Greave, seen here, emplaced above the ankle-belt, provides an additional measure of bondage, while enhancing the appearance of the wearer's lower legs and giving the impression that he is fitted with a Unified Leg and Ankle Binding-Boot. The Binding-Greave is secured with upper and lower sets of straps and buckles behind the ankles and upper calf. Note the stylish ankle-binding belt and that the subject's leather leg-skirt has been tucked into the top of the binding-greave giving his legs a sleek and tightly-bound appearance. The subject is also "knee-bound" with a buckle-strap placed behind and inside his leg-skirt. This binding-greave was "user-made" and was apparently intended to be viewed only from the front, as it presents a nice front-side appearance, but has an ill-fitted, crumpled and unsightly look when seen from the rear behind the wearer's legs, due to the "off-center" buckle-straps and the lighter weight leather with which it was constructed. Note the buckle-frame being used to tightly retain the strap-end on the ankle-binding strap. legboots-170-171 Nov-2009 500h
Front, Side and Rear Views of a Lower-Leg Binding Greave produced by the Celatus Leather Crafters ("CLC"). This unit is made of much heavier leather than that used in the "user-made" Binding-Greave shown above. Here the "Greave" has been employed as the primary leg and ankle bondage, which could be quite effective, if the binding-greave was tightly fitted around the wearer's ankles and legs. However, separate ankle and knee binding-straps were normally used to provide the primary bondage, with the "binding-greave" being added to "dress-up" and enhance the appearance of the subject's legs, especially if he was to stand on "display" during formal events or exhibition occasions. This "greave" was supplied with just the "standard" single "secondary" binding strap to close and secure the rear-center portion of the greave between the "main" upper and lower binding straps, however as an option, two or three auxiliary binding-straps could be ordered to more tightly close and neatly secure the rear of the greave. Note that because no ankle binding-strap is being used, the subject when viewed from the front, has the appearance of being fitted with a "Unified Leg-Binding Boot", which was a frequent reason why many Owner-Masters fitted their "servitude-subjects" with "Binding-Greaves" for display and exhibition occasions. legboots-172,173,174 Nov-2009 400h
Front, Side and Rear Views of an "upscale" Celetus Leather Crafters ("CLF") Lower-Leg Binding Greave with a "studded" vertical front enhancement and three secondary rear binding-straps. Although the optional three secondary binding-straps yielded a more complete closure of the back-side of the greave, as well as providing an added measure of additional leg-bondage, the extra securing straps and buckles at the rear of a binding greave could also have a cluttered and frequently unsightly appearance. Hence, if it was expected that the wearer could be seen from the rear, some Master-Owners would fit their "binding-greaves" with a rear cover flap or specify such a flap as an option when ordering new "binding-greaves". Here the "greave" is primarily serving as a "Dress-Display" leg enhancement, along with what is probably un-needed secondary bondage, as the subject's ankles have been quite securely bound with a "studded" extra-sturdy double-layer leather ankle-binding belt and his knees are tightly secured with a decorated and stylish knee binding-strap. Note that the ankle-binding strap of the "greave" has been expanded with an extra buckle, and the other binding straps are at their near maximum extent, probably due to the "greave" being mounted over and around the subject's heavy-weight ankle-boots and his
extra-heavy ankle-binding strap. legboots-175,176,177 Nov-2009 400h
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FULL CASE LEG WRAP BINDING HARNESS
The Full-Leg Binding Harness, as originated by the Micor Harness Works, was originally an open strap leg securing harness with just ankle and knee bindings, with vertical "side of leg" connecting straps and optional rearward extending wings. Later, front and back vertical connecting straps were added. With the institution of the Semper-Securum Service Program, the Randorian Workshop introduced a leg-binding harness with a lower leg calf wrap casing. Later versions of the Randorian Leg-Harness had an optional upper leg thigh wrap casing. Expanded wings with additional ornamentation, and rear cover flap for the lower leg casing were also popular options. An optional Tummy Cover Plate was available to "dress-up" and improve the appearance of the Harness when it was worn without a skirt. Leg-binding harnesses can be worn with bare feet, with just sandals, or low ankle boots, or high calf boots extending up into the casing, or tall "over the knee" boots surrounded by the casing. The Full Case Leg Wrap Binding Harness, as now constituted, fully covers, encompasses and surrounds the legs, using a leather casing, secured above and below the knees with seven securing straps and buckles, providing for a firm, secure and tight semi-permanent bondage of the legs, at the knees and ankles, resulting in the near total immobilization of the subject's legs, as required by the "Second Anti-Insurrection" Statute and later used on servant-slaves in Semper-Securum service. The casing is jointed and articulated at the knees allowing the subject to sit or kneel as required. A Security Shield Cover is sometimes employed on the rear of the Harness to conceal the rather unsightly lower leg binding straps and buckles and to shield them from tampering. See the Harness Lacing Section for details and photos of security shield covers.
A Premium Grade "Full Case Wrap" Leg Bondage Harness produced by the Royal Randorian Workshop (RRW). It features a decorated "tummy" apron and lower-leg greave-wings, along with center-line adornment on the leg-casing. The RRW did not generally stock "case-wrap" leg binding harnesses, as they were usually custom made to the buyer's specifications and sized to fit the individual who was to wear the harness. This harness is articulated at the knees to allow the wearer to sit or bend his legs, but for optimum appearance and/or maximum bondage security, some leg-wrap harnesses were ordered and made with a solid or one-piece "top of thigh to ankle" leg-wrap casing, which locked the wearer's knees and legs into a straight and rigid position, preventing him from sitting or bending his legs. Despite their higher cost, "full-wrap" leg harnesses were popular with many masters and owners who wanted to "dress-up" their subjects, especially for Semper-Securum service and for display and exhibition duty. mechno-128 Nov-2006 225h x 657w
The "Full Case" Leg Binding Harness fully encompasses, covers and surrounds the Legs, above and below the knees using a total of seven securing straps and buckles, rendering a firm and secure leg bondage and immobilizing the upper and lower legs as required by the "Second Anti-Insurrection" Statute. A subject's movement with his legs thus firmly bound and secured is therefore labored and difficult, requiring the wearer, while moving in an unstable manner and subject to toppling-over, to either shuffle and inch along or to hop from place to place. Wheeled dollies are frequently utilized to transport those who have full leg bondage applied. Most Full-Case Binding Leg Harnesses had articulation at the knees which permitted the wearer to sit and kneel as needed, however, the harness shown above is made with a solid one-piece heavy leather casing which binds the legs into a straight and rigid position. A subject with his legs "bound-up" in a so-called "Rigid-Case" or "Straight-Leg" one-piece leg-binding harness was rendered into a virtual living mannequin and was hardly able to move from the position where he had been placed or stationed. The "Straight-Leg" or "SL" harness was employed primarily for punishment bondage or when a maximum restraint of the wearer's legs was needed or desired to prevent him from moving around. It was sometimes utilized during very formal dress occasions and display-exhibition events when it was desired to display and keep servant-subjects in an upright and stationary posture. harnlower-010 August 27, 2005 600 high
A series of views showing Warlord "Oberon" fitted with a one-piece Full Case "Rigid - Straight-Leg" Harness, without a leg skirt. His legs are tightly wrapped and firmly bound, being fully encased and totally immobilized within the harness, as required by the Second Anti-Insurrection Statute and by the rules governing the bondage of subjects in "Semper-Securum" service. The "Straight-Leg", also termed a "SL" harness, not being articulated at the knees, firmly binds "Oberon's" legs into a stiff and rigid upright position, forcing him to stand, like a "Living Mannequin" in an upright and stationary posture. The rigid one-piece non-articulated casing of the leg-harness does not permit him to sit or keel and allows him virtually no manner of movement from where he is standing. costume-034,035,039 July-2005 600 pixels high
*** "Leg-Bound" subjects standing "on-display" or exhibition, especially when bound in a "Straight-Leg" harness, were sometimes secured to columns, railings or other stationary objects to help keep them from loosing their balance and falling-over to the floor or from being "tipped" or "pushed-over" off-balance by mischievous individuals.
Tier-Binder servant "Vallon" is shown making-up the second of three binding-straps that secures the lower portion of an "AL" type "articulated" leg-binding harness around the subject's calves. The subject being bound has been sedated and placed "face-down" on a so-called Binding-Table to elevate his body and legs off the ground to provide "Vallon" with a more comfortable and convenient working position while he emplaces the binding-harness. The low-ankle boots the subject is wearing appear to be new, as there is no appreciable wear on the soles and heels. The upper-leg portion of the harness that will be bound around the subject's thighs to complete the emplacement of his leg-bondage, is seen with its two straps and buckles visible between "Vallon's" arms and near his knee. Note the buckle insignia mounted on "Vallon's" shoulder plates and neck collar that mark him as an authorized and certified "Tier-Binder" servant. Although most "Tying and Binding" operations were performed by certified "Tier-Binders", any qualified servant could be assigned to perform a "bondage-emplacement". See the rank and insignia portion of the Misc-Details Page for more views and information on "Tier-Binders" and other Servants of Rank. harnlower-020 Jan-2008 600 high
Tier-Binder "Vallon" is buckling-up the last binding-belt to secure the harness around the upper-thigh of the subject. Note the numerous holes in the binding-belt to ensure that a tight and proper fit can be obtained on subjects of varying size. The subject will be left here on the binding-table to have the harness' security-cover, (seen splayed-out from the buckled-straps), folded-back, tied together with leather thongs and secured over the binding-belts and buckles by "Vallon" or another Tier-Binder. Note the armor-set and unified boots on the floor beyond the binding-table. harnlower-021 Jan-2008 600 high
*** For best appearance and to be most effective in its restraint and tightness of bondage, a "Straight-Leg" / "SL" harness, (or most any harness - either bondage or dress), should be sized and custom-fitted to the individual who is to wear it.
ABOVE - Tier-Binder Servant "Vallon" cinches-down a buckle-strap as he emplaces a new one-piece "Straight-Leg" Binding Harness on Semper-Securum" subject "Huron". The harness is non-articulated and will bind and support Huron's weak and damaged legs into a rigid "straight-line" position that will allow him to stand for longer periods of time. ** BELOW - "Vallon" converses with "Huron" after installing him into the new "Straight-Leg" harness. Observe how the massive and "slab-like" one-piece harness casing extends from Huron's hips down to his ankles which will better support his damaged legs, but will not permit him to sit or kneel. Note the various armor-sets in the background. harnlower-028,029 Jan-2008 375h x500w
ABOVE - Front and Back views of the typical Royal Randorain Workshop (RRW) "Straight-Leg" ("SL") Leg-Binding Harness laid-out flat to illustrate its overall size and shape, and the arrangement of its binding-straps and buckles. The angled section on one side is the flap that is "tucked-in" to cover the back of the legs as the harness is secured in place. These views show the basic "SL" harness with the RRW's standard level of decoration of "Shallow-V" angles on the "tummy-cover" flap and medallion-studs anchoring the three primary binding-straps. An even plainer version with just rivet-studs and no decoration on the "tummy-flap" was available for punishment and capitol bondage use. For the best appearance and to be most effective in its restraint and tightness of bondage, a "Straight-Leg" ("SL") harness, or most any harness, either bondage or dress, should be sized and custom-fitted to the individual who is to wear it. ** LOWER-LEFT - A slightly up-scale and the most popular version of the "SL" Harness with a central "studded' belt down the center of the casing. ** LOWER-RIGHT - Another popular "up-graded" decoration option. "SL" harnesses were not normally highly decorated. harnlower-030,031,032,033 Jan-2008 300 high
ABOVE - Two RRW "SL" harnesses with custom-ordered schemes of decoration that are distinctive and represent the Provinces where they are to be used. Notice how the decorative elements are placed near the center-line of the harness casing, as the outer portions of the casing will be wrapped back around the subject's legs where the decorations would be out of place. LEFT - The Province of Glycon custom-ordered five "SL" harnesses with an adornment of square Celtic-Knot plates along with their large and distinctive "Rams Head" medallion mounted on a short strap anchored to the "tummy-cover" with small medallion-studs. RIGHT - One of several "SL" harnesses ordered for use in the Province of Gryphon that are fitted with "Deep-V" decorative elements, medallion-studs, and the distinctive "Gryphon" medallion mounted on the tummy-cover plate. BELOW - Views of various styled "SL" harnesses being worn. harnlower-034,035 300 h 044,045,046 380h
Basic issue RRW "SL" Standard & most popular "SL" Upgrade w/ Tummy Decor.
Examples of two custom "Straight-Leg" ("SL") Harnesses produced for: LEFT - Glycon Province with Celtic-Knot plates and the "Gryphon" Province medallion strap-mounted on the Tummy-Plate with small medallion-studs. CENTER & RIGHT - Front and Rear Views of a Handsome "SL" for the Gryphon Province with "Deep-V" adornment and "Gryphon" Province medallion. It also has medallion-studs on the front-center strap and at the rear of legs. BELOW - As with other leg-harnesses and attire, the application of greave-wings on "SL" harnesses to enhance the appearance of the lower legs was quite popular. harnlower-047,048,049,050,051,052 Jan-2008 380 h
THE "GRYPHON DRAPE" - BINDING-STRAP AND BUCKLE COVER
A major problem with the Full-Case Leg-Wrap Harness were the numerous and unsightly binding-straps and buckles at the rear of the harness casing. The desire and effort to cover and hide these straps and buckles from view was a common problem and ongoing irritation with many users of the "Full-Case-Wrap" Leg-Binding Harness. Many of these owners went to great lengths and effort to obscure the straps and buckles with cover-plates or other devices, or placed their "Full-Case Leg-Bound" subjects in positions where the rear of the harness would not be readily visible. The Gryphon Province, who was a major user of "SL" (straight-leg) and "AL" (articulated-leg) Full-Case Leg-Wrap binding harnesses, came up with a simple solution to this problem with the use a "covering-drape", generally of leather, hanging freely from the waist-belt of the harness, which effectively obscured the straps and buckles from view, and yet made them easily accessible when security and potential tampering with the bindings was not a concern. This stylish, but effective covering device, which the "Gryphon" Province had been retro-fitting to many of their earlier "full-case" leg-wrap harnesses, became known as a "Gryphon-Leg-Drape" and it was soon adopted as a "retro-fit" by many "leg-wrap harness" users in place of "security-covers". The "security-covers" were effective in covering the straps and buckles and protecting them from tampering, but were time-consuming to install and remove, due to the need to close and secure them with lacing thong patterns, some of which were quite complex for appearance purposes. Examples of the "Gryphon Drape" and its application are illustrated below and on the following pages.
LEFT - A "SL" harness with its "Gryphon Drape" moved off to the right exposing the unsightly binding-straps and buckles to view. CENTER - A basic unadorned "Gryphon Drape" greatly improves the rear appearance of a "SL" or "AL" leg-wrap harness by obscuring the straps and buckles from view. RIGHT - A side view showing the binding-straps and buckles concealed behind the "Drape". Some owners utilized one or more small buckle-straps at the bottom and/or sides of the "drape" to secure it and keep it in place. harnlower-053,054,055 Jan-2008 380 high
ABOVE - LEFT to RIGHT --> "SL" harness without greave-wings featuring a "Gryphon Drape" enhanced with a central "studded" spine option, which stiffens the "Drape" and improves its otherwise bland appearance. ** Central-Spined "Drape" on a "winged" harness. Although it gave the wearer the appearance of having a "tail", the "central-spine" was a popular "drape" option, as it "dressed-up" the rear of the harness at modest additional cost. ** The "studded-edge" style of the "Gryphon Drape" was the most impressive version and found favor with many "upscale" customers. ** BELOW - LEFT to RIGHT --> "AL" harness with a central-spined "Drape" with the harness' security-cover out of use, open and unlaced. ** Some owners applied small external or internal buckle-straps to secure "Gryphon-Covers" and keep them in place. "Spined" and "Edged" Gryphon-Drapes are shown externally secured. harnlower-056,057,058,070,071,072 1-2008 350h
A series of views illustrating how the appearance of an old early version "AL" (articulated at the knees) Full-Case Leg-Wrap Harness was improved with the addition of a "Gryphon-Drape". ** From TOP-LEFT to LOWER-RIGHT --> The ugly mass of binding-straps and buckles is quite visible. ** The closing and lacing of the security cover improves the appearance, but the rear of the harness is still rather unsightly. ** A "Gryphon Drape" has been attached that will hang-down over the security-cover and upper binding-straps. ** The "Drape" has much improved the appearance of the rear of the harness. ** Later, the "Drape" was "tailed" with a "studded" center-spine enhancement. harnlower-060,061,062,063,064,059 370h
LEFT - One of three upgraded Randorian Workshop Full-Dress "Straight-Leg" Binding Harnesses (Opus SL-20,21,22) custom-ordered by the Province of Gryphon, who was a major user of "SL" (straight-leg) and "AL" (articulated-leg) binding harnesses. These impressive and highly decorated leg harnesses, intended for "display and exhibition", featured decorative elements on the front and sides of the harness casing, as well as the so-called "Gryphon Drape" covering the binding-straps and buckles, and were probably the most elaborate and handsome "SL" type harnesses produced by the Royal Randorian Workshop (RRW) or any other harness manufacturer. The RRW produced a fourth identical unit (Opus-27), for display in their showroom as an example of their workmanship and to serve as inspiration for future customers. RIGHT - These three harnesses and the RRW's Opus-27, along with five earlier and similar less decorated "SL's" (Opus SL-10,11,12,17,18) also incorporated the so-called "Gryphon Leg Drape", a simple, but effective, innovation developed in the Gryphon Province for covering and obscuring the unsightly binding-straps and buckles at the rear of the harness. The "Drape" is shown ABOVE-RIGHT displaced to the left, exposing the straps and buckles it is meant to cover. harnlower-065,066 Jan-2008 600 high
Two rear views of the Royal Randorian Workshop (RRW) Opus SL-20 harness illustrating how the "Gryphon-Leg-Drape" effectively and stylishly covers the unsightly binding-straps and buckles at the rear of the harness. Note how the "Drape" falls neatly between the wings of the lower-leg greaves. The "Edged-Drapes" on the RRW's Opus SL-20,21,22 harnesses were unusually highly decorated. This simple covering device, which the "Gryphon" Province had been retro-fitting to many of their earlier "full-case" leg-wrap harnesses, became known as a "Gryphon-Leg-Drape" and it was soon adopted as a "retro-fit" by many "leg-wrap harness" users. The RRW also offered the "Drape" as an extra-cost option, but due to the extra cost, many buyers elected to utilize a "leg-drape" of their own design. harnlower-067,068 Jan-2008 600 high
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Rear views of a "leg-bound" man-servant fitted with an early design "AL" (articulated at the knees) Full Case Leg Wrap Harness, without a security shield-cover to hide and protect the rather unsightly securing straps and buckles. This harness was one of the first Full-Wrap Leg-Binding Harnesses produced by the Royal Randorian Workshop and after many years of service and maintenance, it was finally retired and replaced by a new and better design RRW Full-Wrap Leg Harness. Following its retirement, this old and duty-worn "veteran" harness was used to bind a troublesome servant-slave who was sold to a broker, and then re-sold to a buyer in another province. Amazingly, this same harness was recognized, with its marks and scars, several years later binding yet another servant-slave. The fate of that servant-slave and the harness are unknown. See the "Harness Lacing" Section for more photos and details on Harness Security Shield Covers. costume-040,041 July-2005 600 high
A "Man at Arms" subject, probably in Semper-Securum service, secured in a Full Wrap Leg Harness fitted with a double-thong, straight-laced security cover. Note how the unsightly securing straps and buckles are hidden from view and protected from tampering behind the "cover". Even with just this plain-laced cover, the appearance of the rear of the harness is much improved. The later adoption and use of the so-called "Gryphon Drape" largely replaced the use of security-covers for binding-strap and buckle concealment when tampering with the securing-straps and buckles was not a concern. The "Drape", initially used in the Gryphon Province, was a simple, but effective drape of leather that hung from the waist and concealed the binding-straps and buckles at the rear of the harness behind it. See the pages above for views and details on the "Gryphon Drape". harnlower-111,112,115 Jan-2006 600 high
A basic double-thong, straight-laced security cover applied to the Full Wrap Leg Harness shown above. This installation would be typical of a routine day to day security cover emplacement. Although this is a rather unimpressive security cover installation, the appearance of the rear of the leg harness is still greatly improved with the securing straps and buckles concealed and "shielded" from tampering behind the cover. harnlacing-104,105 Jan-2006 400 high
Rear view of a subject lying face-down with his legs bound and immobilized within a Full-Case Leg-Wrap Binding Harness. A so-called "security-cover" has been closed and secured over the harness' somewhat unsightly lower-leg binding-straps and buckles to obscure and protect them from being tampered with. The following views illustrate the how the security-cover was secured using the common and basic "straight-line" lacing pattern shown in the views above. harnlower-022 300h
ABOVE - Prime Man-Servant "Oberon" is shown "lacing-up" the security cover on a full-wrap leg-binding harness, which has been emplaced and tightened to bind and immobilize a subject's legs, who is sedated and lying face-down on the floor as the harness is applied. The laced-cover will enclose and obscure the unsightly buckles and straps securing the harness around the subject's legs and protect the buckles from tampering. ** BELOW - "Oberon" has completed "lacing-up" the security cover with a common "straight-laced" pattern and is tying-off and knotting the lacing thongs with a stylish bow-tie at the top edge of the cover. The harness' lower-leg binding straps and buckles are now secured and protected from tampering behind the tightly laced security cover. Note the back-sides of the lower-leg greave wings which have been splayed outward to gain better access for lacing and closing the security cover in place. harnlower-023,024 Jan-2008 350h x 495w
The "AL" (Articulated at the Knee) style Full-Case Leg-Wrap Binding Harness allowed the wearer to sit or kneel, as shown: ABOVE - Subject wearing an "AL" harness sitting without a dress skirt. BELOW - Sitting with a knee-length dress skirt. harnlower 075,076,077,078 Aug-2005 400 h
When worn with a long "calf-length" dress skirt, an "AL" (articulated at the knees) or "SL" (straight-leg - non-articulated) Full-Case Leg-Wrap Binding Harness is almost completely obscured from view under the skirt, except for the ankle binding. Hence, in some display or exhibition situations, a Long Dress Skirt may be used to make it less obvious that the subject is standing "leg-bound" in a Full-Wrap Leg Binding Harness and therefore is largely immobilized "in place", being unable to readily move from his station due to his legs being tightly bound and secured. Also, before the introduction and adoption of the so-called "Gryphon-Drape", a long dress skirt was quite effective at concealing the rather unsightly binding-straps and buckles at the rear of the leg harness. costume-017,018,019 500 high
ABOVE - Front and Rear Views of an "AL" Full-Case "Articulated" Leg-Wrap Harness being worn with a medium "knee" length skirt and no security-cover over the binding-straps and buckles. The knee-length skirt was frequently worn with a leg-harness, as it enhanced the overall appearance of a "leg-bound" servant-subject, even though it only covered the upper two-thirds of the harness and did not conceal the lower binding-straps and buckles. ** BELOW - The Full Case Leg Wrap Binding Harness can be worn with bare feet, sandals, low ankle boots (left), high calf boots (center) extending up into the casing, or tall "over the knee" boots (right) surrounded by the casing. Low ankle boots are most often used with the Full Case Leg Harness. harnlower-073,074 450h legboots-023 300h
Views of a "SL" type Full-Wrap Leg-Binding Harness, which has been fitted around the disabled and no longer functional legs of a Mechnotronics "Centurion" series automaton-android named "Duran" owned by the House of Randor. It was found to be impractical to repair or replace "Duran's" damaged leg structures. So, rather than retire the popular unit, the owner opted to have "Duran's" legs stabilized and permanently bound and encased within a "SL - Straight-Leg" non-articulated Full Wrap Leg Harness fitted with a fancy-laced and unusually decorated Security Cover. See below and the "Harness Lacing" section for more details and close-up views of security covers. Unit "Duran" with its legs handsomely bound and decorated, now stands on duty in the entrance hall of the Castra of Randor, where it is admired as it welcomes and greets arriving and departing guests, and has become one of the most well known of the many automaton-androids produced by Mechnotronics. harnlower-100,101,110,102 Jan-2006 575 high
Close-up views of the Harness and decorated Security Cover installed on the automaton-android "Duran". Note how the "Cover" obscures from view the harness's unsightly securing straps and buckles and shields them from tampering. Because the harness and security-cover were not likely to be removed for an extended time, and the unit was to be placed on static public display, the Security Cover, as well as the over-all appearance of the rear of the Harness, was greatly enhanced with 29 stylish bow-tied connections at the lacing holes and along the ridge-spine. In addition, the normally plain sides of the cover casing were also decorated with metal emblems, matching the style and arrangement of decoration applied to the harness leg wings. Such decoration of a security-cover is rarely seen. Such an intricate "lacing" is normally utilized only for special display and competitive situations, as the time and effort to remove and re-emplace it would not be practical on a day to day, or even week to week basis, but here it is appropriate due to the expected long term and permanence of the emplacement. harnlacing-101,100,099 Jan-2006 400 high
An interesting view of "Tier-Binder" servant "Kaylon" completing the "knotting and tie-off" of an intricate lacing pattern being employed to close and secure a decorated "ridge-spine" style security-cover on an "AL" (articulated at the knees) full-wrap leg-binding harness. The "Semper-Securum" servant-subject "Huron", following his weekly body maintenance (body washed and then rubbed with oil), is being "re-bound" into his leg-harness to continue with his on-going Semper-Securum" (always-bound or secured) duty and display. "Huron", who elected to become a "Securum" when his legs became disabled, is lying face-down on a so-called "binding platform", which elevates and places his body and legs at a more convenient working height above the floor to allow Binder "Kaylon" to more comfortably work while emplacing the leg-harness with its securing buckle-straps and thong-lacing. Despite that "Huron" is being tied and bound by "Kaylon", both servants have been close friends for many years. The very stylish and unusually complex "triple-bow-tied " lacing pattern on the security-cover was emplaced using four separate lacing thongs, which were knotted and anchored using 32 decorative bow-tied connections at the side lacing holes and along the spine of the "cover". Tier-Binder "Kaylon" has likely worked on this masterful emplacement for upwards of an hour. The installation of such a complex and time-consuming lacing pattern would only be carried-out for a very formal exhibition display occasion, as a demonstration of skill during a contest competition, or when the subject was to remain in leg bondage for an extended period of time (perhaps several days or more), such as for Semper-Securum duty. Note the "buckle-insignia" mounted on "Kaylon's" shoulder plates, marking him with the status and rank as a "Tier-Binder" and the stylish winged and studded wrist-bracers he is wearing, as well as the large decorated lower-leg "greave-wings" on "Huron's" leg harness. Also, both "Kaylon" and "Huron" are attired in open-design cross-strap body harnesses, indicating that the weather and/or environment is likely warm and comfortable, as opposed to a chilly or cold condition that would call-for a more body enclosing harness design. Consult the "Rank and Status on Shoulder-Plate" section of the HarnMisc Page for more views and details on "Tier-Binder" duty and rank insignia . harnlower-026 Jan-2008 700h x 557w
Semper-Securum subject "Huron", after having his leg-immobilizing full-wrap binding harness emplaced, lying face-down on the binding-table, patiently waiting for assistance to stand-up and be moved, probably on a wheeled dolly, to his assigned display and duty station. He has not been "upper-body-bound", as he will be displayed with his arms and hands free to perform his duties, and eat and drink, etc. Note the "unified" boots, shoulder-pauldrons, gauntlet-gloves and armor-set on the floor beyond the "binding-table". A pair of winged wrist bracers rests above Huron's head. harnlower-027 Jan-2008 400h x 598w
Views of two "SL - Straight-Leg" type Full-Case Leg-Wrap Binding Harnesses being worn with Low Ankle Boots and no additional dress skirt. The "SL" Harness provided a greater level of security and more restraint of the wearer's movement than the articulated "AL" harness. The "SL" was also preferred by most owners for its better and smarter appearance for display occasions and exhibition events. ** LEFT - Early "SL" with small leg-wings and no "tummy-cover" apron-plate, Jan-2004 to Oct-2004. ** RIGHT - Later production "SL" with larger expanded leg-wings and more decoration - after Oct-2004 and the Tummy Cover Plate added in July 2005. harnlower-036,037 500 high
LEFT - Small Leg Wings on early "AL" Articulated Harness with low-ankle boots - Prior to October 2004 ** RIGHT - Expanded Leg Wings on later "AL" Harness being worn with sandals and no skirt - October 2004 harnlower 012,014 Aug-2005 500 high
LEFT - Full Case Leg Wrap Harness with expanded wings splayed out - Oct 2004. The harness weighs 14 pounds and is constructed of mostly 4 to 7 ounce leather material. Note the numerous holes in the buckle-straps to aid in properly fitting the harness firm and tight around the subject's legs. ** RIGHT - Side view of an early Micor Harness Works (MHW) "AL" (articulated at the knees) Full-Leg-Wrap Binding-Harness being worn over low-rise ankle boots. Note the small leg-wings, only partially decorated, the dangling binding-strap and the general appearance of the harness compared with later more decorated and improved versions. harnlower-015 600h x 500w harnlower-038 500 h
LEFT - Rear view of Full Case Leg Wrap Harness with buckles engaged and rear vertical strap displaced to the side to show securing straps and buckles. The Leg Harness fully encompasses and firmly secures the Legs, as per the "leg immobilizing" statute, using a double-wrapping of 1-3/4 inch wide belts with double buckles, at the Ankles and Knees. Three secondary buckle-straps around the lower legs and calves and two buckle straps surrounding the upper legs and thighs secure the casing firmly around the legs. ** RIGHT - Rear view of a subject wearing a similar style harness. Note rather unsightly appearance of the binding-straps and buckles on this early MHW "AL" Articulated Leg Harness. harnlower-016,039 600high
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THE "HARD - TIED" BONDAGE AND SAGA OF SERVANT - SLAVE "KROMM" PRIOR TO BEING TRADED AND TURNED - OVER TO HIS NEW OWNER - MASTER
Servant-Slave "Kromm", originally of the "Sorgonia" Province, became the property of Reagent "Stayloff" in the "Gallus" Province, when "Sorgonia" was annexed by the "Gallus" and "Micon" Provinces. Reagent "Stayloff" subsequently received and accepted a very generous offer to trade the large and muscular 6', 3" tall, 220-pound, "Kromm", who was then over 50 years of age, in exchange for three younger servant-subjects. Due to "Kromm's" displeasure and insubordinate attitude toward the prospect of being traded to a new Master, "Stayloff", in expectation of "Kromm's" possible resistance upon being traded, and as punishment for his insubordination, directed that he be securely bound and gagged on the day he was scheduled to be turned-over to his new Owner-Master. ** On the FOLLOWING PAGES - "Kromm" is shown in various positions after he was secured and immobilized by being so-called "Hard-Tied Bound" prior to being turned-over to his new Master.
ABOVE and BELOW - Servant-Slave "Kromm" is seen here lying "face-down" on the floor in the quarters of his "Primus-Pilus" or Chief Servant-Warden, "Haffnar" (Hahf-Nar"), where he has been placed after being bound, tied and gagged in preparation for being turned over to a new Owner-Master, who had failed to arrive prior to night-fall on the day he was scheduled to pick-up "Kromm". Therefore, "Kromm", will spend the night here under the observation of Primus-Pilus "Haffnar", who will check, from time to time through the night, to see that "Kromm's" bindings remain tight and secure and will adjust or tighten them as necessary. The term "Primus-Pilus" ("First-Spear"), was often applied to the "Prime", "Lead" or "Head" Servant-Warden and/or the most Senior Servant, who had been delegated to have overall authority over the Servant Corps of a Castra Household.
These views illustrate how "Kromm" has been so-called "Hard-Tied" or "Hard-Bound", with his bound feet and legs having been drawn back toward his waist, using the buckled leather strap visible between his bound ankles and tied wrists, which engages a link on a leather loop strap secured around the back side of his ankle bindings, and then leads to a second link anchored to the waist-belt of his leg-skirt. His feet and boots have been so-called "Boot-Strapped" together with a leather strap around the insteps and soles of his boots. A leather thong is being used to secure the "Boot-Tie" in place and retrain it from slipping off the toes of his boots. He is also wearing stylish "winged" metal Leg-Greaves along with a Leg-Drape, which has been folded-back and secured behind the "hard-tie" strap. Note how the "winged" bracers on his lower-arms have been neatly folded behind his back with his wrists being strap-bound and secured to the "hard-tie" strap. "Kromm" spent most of his bondage time lying in this "face-down" position, as it was probably the most comfortable position for "Kromm" and allowed his bindings to be exposed and easily accessed. To obtain a more secure bondage, another securing strap, seen in later views, was later placed around his upper-arms and torso. ** As can be seen in the View Above, "Kromm" is totally bald, a condition that began in his "Mid-Twenties" and was complete by his "Early-Thirties".
Such "Hard-Tying" of a subject's arms and legs rendered him virtually immobile and unable to effectively move from the location where he had been left or placed after having such "Hard-Boundage" applied, hence the large and muscular 6', 3" tall "Kromm" has been rendered into +220 pounds of immobilized flesh and muscle, along with his 55+ pounds of heavy leather "servitude" attire. harn-lower-001,002 600h x 633w / 450h x 626w Nov-2011
ABOVE - View of Servant-Slave "Kromm" in the initial "face-up" position in which he was first placed on the floor in Primus-Pilus "Haffnar's" quarters after being carried from the "Binding-Area", where he was initially bound and gagged in anticipation of being conveyed to a new Owner-Master. When the new Owner did not pick him up by night-fall, the bound and gagged "Kromm", who weighed about 270 pounds wearing his 55 pounds of servitude leather along with his "stripped" body weight of 220 pounds, was carried in this "face-up" position by four other servants to "Haffnar's" quarters where he was put-down in the same "face-up" position at the foot of "Haffnar's" bunk to spend the night.
This "face-up" position was reasonably comfortable for "Kromm", but the rear buckling on his arm bindings was not easily visible for inspection, nor readily accessible to be adjusted or tightened, if needed. Hence, "Kromm" was re-positioned by Primus-Pilus "Haffnar" into a "face-down" position, as shown in the views above, which was more comfortable for "Kromm" and also made his arm and wrist bindings easily accessible for inspection and maintenance, as they were most likely to possibly loosen and need re-tightening. The leg-bindings were quite secure and tight and were not likely to slacken over time.
This view clearly shows the voice impairing and vision blinding face-mask being worn by "Kromm". The mask fits tightly up under the chin and over the mouth to muffle "Kromm's" speech, but allows him adequate breathing. The mask is also fitted with a movable visor to regulate the level of the wearer's vision from nearly normal to totally blinded. Here the visor has been left "cracked open to allow "Kromm" a limited amount of vision. Also note the binding-strap placed around "Kromm's" upper-arms and torso, and the leather thong securing the wings of his leg-greaves tightly against his lower-legs. kroom-003 400h x 685w Nov-2011
This view of "Kromm" resting in the reasonably comfortable "face-up" position clearly shows the buckled "boot-tie" strap binding his feet and boots together, not allowing him to wiggle his feet, which with the sharp "tie-back" of his lower-legs, greatly assists to immobilize his feet and legs, thus keeping his leg-bindings tight and secure for extended periods. Also note the face-covering mask he is wearing, which serves to muffle his speech and impair his vision. In this "hard-tied" position, he was virtually incapable of any movement, other than to possibly, with some difficulty, turn-over onto his side. kromm-004 420h x 690w Nov-2011
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Low-Angle View of "Kromm" lying on his left-side securely "Hard-Bound and Tied". The rear of his totally bald head is quite obvious, and the soles of his boots appear to be new with little wear. kromm-016,017 230h x 674w Nov-2011
ABOVE and BELOW - Two Views of "Kromm" after he managed to flop his "hard-tied" legs over to the left, following his initial placement on the floor in the full "face-up" position, as seen on the previous two pages. He had recently been carried by fellow servants from the area where he was bound and tied, to the quarters of "Haffnar", his Primus-Pilus and supervising Senior Servant-Warden, to spend the night under "Haffnar's" observation. Note that "Kromm" is completely blinded with the vision-visor on his face-mask being fully closed. kromm-021,022 400h Nov-2011
"Kromm" is seen lying at the foot of "Haffnar's" bunk in nearly the same location and position, as on the previous page, illuminated by the "early morning light" coming in from a nearby window in "Haffnar's" quarters. Since he may be totally blinded, if the vision-visor on his face-mask has been fully closed, "Kromm" may not be that aware of the incoming daylight? "Kromm" is seen here lying alone and un-supervised on the floor in Haffnar's" quarters after his bindings had been earlier examined and tightened by "Haffnar" in the "wee hours" of the morning, at about 4AM, as shown on the following page, when "Haffnar" has arisen in preparation for an early morning duty assignment. "Kromm" will be lying here alone for several hours, virtually immobilized by his "hard-tied" bondage and unable to move, until he is fed and watered by "Haffnar" following his return from his early morning duty. kromm-023 500h x 660w Nov-2011
In the early morning darkness, with the aid of the light provided by oil lamps in his quarters, Primus-Pilus "Haffnar", is adjusting or tightening the bindings on slave-servant "Kromm", who was lying "bound and gagged" at the foot of "Haffnar's" bunk, where the Primus-Pilus could watch over him during the night. "Kromm" who was being traded to a new Owner-Master, had been placed into bondage the previous day in anticipation of being picked-up by his new Owner-Master, but when the new Master failed to arrive by night-fall to pick him up, "Kromm" was moved, still bound and gagged, to the quarters of the "Primus-Pilus" to spend the night.
Primus-Pilus "Haffnar", having arisen at about 4AM to perform early-duty, is making a final check of "Kromm's" bondage before leaving him alone in his quarters until the morning, when it was expected that he would be delivered to his new Owner-Master. Unfortunately for "Kromm", his new Owner still did not arrive until the following day and "Kromm" was required to remain "hard-tied" bound and gagged for another day and night, on the floor in "Haffnar's" quarters, after which his new Owner finally took delivery of him and he was hauled away still "hard-tied" in the new Owner-Master's conveyance. During "Kromm's" time in bondage, Primus-Pilus "Haffnar" saw to it that he was provided with food and water and made as comfortable as possible considering that he was in "hard-tied" bondage. kromm-010 Nov-2011 600h x 648w
On the PREVIOUS PAGE - "Kromm" is seen still bound and "hard-tied" on the second day he spent on the floor in the quarters of "Haffnar", the "Primus-Pilus" Servant-Warden of Reagant "Stayloff's" Castra Household "Servitude" Corps. During the morning of "Kromm's" second day in "Haffnar's" quarters, the quarters were cleaned by three servants, who took it upon themselves in "Haffnar's" absence, to move "Kromm" around as they did their cleaning chores and changed the linens on "Haffnar's" bunk. However, they were not careful to put him back in the position they found him, and not knowing any different, they placed him into this uncomfortable "right-side leaning" attitude, leaving "Kromm" with no support for his head and neck and painfully crunching his right-shoulder and arm under his body. But as "Kromm" was gagged and speech impaired, he was not able to complain and being unable to move or shift his position, could only utter grunts through his mask and shake his head in protest, which the cleaners did not understand and ignored as the protests and growlings of a "tied-up" slave. About two hours later, at lunch time, when "Haffnar" brought "Kromm" something to eat and drink, he found the bound-up servant-slave in painful agony. "Haffnar" re-positioned "Kromm" into a "semi-upright" position to feed him and then placed him into his preferred and most comfortable "face-down" position, as shown on the above pages. In the Previous Page Lower View, the vision visor on "Kromm's" face-mask is "cracked-open" allowing him a limited amount of vision. kromm-005 550h x 674 kromm-006 340h x 687w Nov-2011
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"Kromm" is seen sleeping?, snoring?, or just resting somewhat comfortably?, at the foot of Primus-Pilus Servant-Warden, "Haffnar's" bunk as the first light of morning makes its way into "Haffnar's quarters through a nearby window. This was the second night and morning that "Kromm" spent being "hard-tied" bound and gagged on the floor of "Haffnar's" quarters, where the "Primus-Pilus" kept "Kromm" under observation during the night to ensure that his bindings remained tight and secure. Later that morning, "Kromm's" new Owner-Master finally arrived to take possession of him and he was carried, still bound and gagged, to the Castra's Entrance Hall by four of his much younger fellow servants and "given over to his new Owner-Master, who had "Kromm" placed into his conveyance, where he remained "hard-bound" for transport back to the new Owner's home Castra.
"Kromm" has since returned twice to the "Stayloff" Castra Compound as a body guard and attendant for his new Master and both are said to be reasonably pleased with each other and that "Kromm" appears to be well cared for and remains in good health and condition. "Kromm" continues to wear his old 50+ pound leather "servitude" body-armor, and the memory of his ordeal prior to being turned-over to his then new Master will remain with him for the rest of his life. kromm-008 450h x 648w Nov-2011
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Primus-Pilus "Haffnar" performs a final adjustment and tightening of "Kromm's" bindings prior to having him taken to the Castra Entry Hall for delivery and turn-over to his new Owner-Master. The three rank-icon discs on "Haffnar's" shoulder boards seem to indicate that he is serving as a "Servant-General", having authority over the servants of more than just his own Castra Servitude Corps. ---> Such authority was generally granted by the agreement of multiple Sovereigns or Reagents, usually for a limited period of time, such as during a Master and Owners Conclave or other event when multiple servant corps from two or more Provinces, Regions or Castra Households would be gathered together and one Servant Warden or Leader having overall and "general" authority over the multiple servitude corps was desirable.
"Haffnar" is wearing a "Micor Harness Works" Class-D "XX" (double-crossing body-straps over the chest and back) Style Dress Harness over a leather "Sub-Orum" (under-harness) Tunic. Like "Kromm", he is also attired with "winged" wrist bracers and leg-greaves, along with a nicely decorated rear-leg drape, which is attached to the waist-belt of his harness using three so-called "Panthro Hook" type fasteners, allowing the "drape" to be removed without having to take-off the harness. kromm-020 600h x 688w Nov-2011
"Kromm" is seen lying in the position he was in, after having his bindings inspected, adjusted and tightened by Primus-Pilus "Haffnar", prior to being carried and moved by fellow servants from "Haffnar's" quarters to the Castra's Entrance Hall, where after spending about 42 hours (two full nights and nearly two full days) "hard-bound" and gagged, before being finally turned-over to his new Owner-Master. In the View Above, "Kromm's" totally bald head is quite obvious. He began to go bald when he was about 24 years old and was totally bald by the age of 32. Now 50+ years old, "Kromm's" baldness, along with his 6', 3" height and impressive "servitude leather attire, is one of his distinguishing characteristics. His baldness also tends to make him look somewhat younger, and despite his increasing age, he remains strong and fit, and in good health.
The wisdom of Reagent "Stayloff" to trade the still strong and healthy, but aging "Kromm" to another Owner for three younger servants was considered by some observers as questionable. However "Stayloff" apparently had some concerns about "Kromm's" increasing age and possible future health and/or dental problems and decided it might be wise to trade "Kromm" while he was still able to get a favorable trade and deal for him, as older servants and slaves generally tended to increasingly loose value as they got older. Servant and Slave Brokers were generally not interested in buying or trading for older "servitude" subjects and Owner-Masters could frequently get stuck with having to keep and maintain older servants and slaves in failing health, for which they could no longer obtain a favorable price or trade deal. kromm-011 330h x 690w Nov-2011
In an impressive "From His Toes - Up To His Head" View, "Kromm" is seen lying attired and "hard-tied bound" into his 57 pounds of heavy leather "Battle and Servitude" Body Armor. Initially it was the intention of his then current Master, Reagent "Stayloff", to remove this impressive and highly decorated set of heavy leather body-armor from "Kromm" and then trade or sell him wearing a more standard style of "servitude" attire. But "Kromm's" prospective and future Owner-Master insisted that the leather armor was an essential part of the deal for "Kromm" and that he would not trade for "Kromm" unless he was turned-over wearing this armor out-fitting. "Stayloff" had wanted to display "Kromm's" leather armor on a mannequin-stand in the Castra Entry Hall, and initially, had declined to trade or sell "Kromm" wearing it. However after some time with no credible offers for "Kromm" without his armor, "Stayloff" finally agreed to trade him wearing the armor, which was custom-sized to fit the 6', 3" tall "Kromm" and was too large to properly fit a normal sized or smaller individual.
This impressive armor-set had been worn by "Kromm" for most all of his adult life and was originally custom-made for him when he was about 22 years old, by the Castra Household "Harness-Master" of his former Owner-Master, to whom "Kromm" had been "born to the house" as a slave. The armor was enhanced and improved over the years with additions and replacement parts, along with added decorative elements.
Reagent "Stayloff" had acquired "Kromm" when the "Sorgania" Province was annexed and taken-over by the "Gallus" and "Micon" Provinces. The standard "labor-duty" servants and slaves of "Sorgania" were evenly distributed among the Reagents and other Owner-Masters of "Gallus" and "Micon", while the Servant-Wardens and other Senior and more desirable "persons-of-servitude", such as "Kromm", were sold at auction, with "Kromm", then in his "mid-thirties", being acquired by Reagent "Stayloff" for a higher than expected bid amount, due to his large size, muscular body-build and very impressive leather attire.
Although "Stayloff" had paid more for "Kromm" than he had wanted to, he did get his money's worth out of the strong and able 6', 3" tall servant-slave, although he was at times, not happy with "Kromm's" sometimes insubordinate attitude, which along with "Kromm's" increasing age, may have led to "Stayloff's" ultimate decision to sell or trade him, and then because of his concern that "Kromm" might be rebellious at the time of the trade and exchange, had him bound and gagged prior to his being "given-over" to his new Owner-Master. kromm-012 700h x 590w Nov-2011
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ADDITIONAL VIEWS OF "KROMM" IN "HARD-TIED" BONDAGE
"Kromm's" Arms, Legs and Feet are shown "Hard-Tied Bound". Note the "Boot-Strap" around the instep and soles of his boots, the "Hard-Tie" Strap visible between his heels and hands, and the complimentary and matching decoration on the "winged" wrist-bracers and leg-greaves. kromm-013 400h x 690w Nov-2011
ABOVE and BELOW - Two unusual low-angle views of "Kromm" lying on the floor bound at the ankles, with his feet and boots so-called "Boot-Strapped" together with a leather strap across the insteps and soles of his boots. A leather thong is being used to secure the "Boot-Tie" in place and restrain it from slipping off the toes of the boots. His legs have been so-called "Hard-Tied", being drawn back toward his waist, using the leather strap visible between his ankle-bindings and bound wrists, which engages a link and leather loop strap secured around the back side of his ankle bindings. He is also wearing "winged" metal leg-greaves and a leg-drape that has been bundled and secured behind the "hard-tie" strap. kromm-014 330h x 690w / kromm-007 400h x 633w Nov-2011
Low-Angle Views of "Servant "Kromm" - ABOVE, showing his knees and upper-legs, covered by leather "cuisse" armor, securely bound with a double-buckled leather binding-strap. His decorated "knee-length" leather leg-skirt is seen in the right half of the view. ** BELOW, a Head-On View showing "Kromm's" voice and vision impairing mask, strapped onto his totally bald head, and large shoulder pauldron plates. kromm-015,018 Nov-2011 400h x 535w & 504w
An alternate view of "Kromm" sleeping or resting, somewhat comfortably?, at the foot of Primus-Pilus Servant-Warden, "Haffnar's" bunk as the first light of morning makes its way into "Haffnar's quarters through a nearby window. This was the second night and morning that "Kromm" spent being "hard-tied" bound and gagged on the floor of "Haffnar's" quarters, where the "Primus-Pilus" kept "Kromm" under observation during the night to ensure that his bindings remained tight and secure. Later that morning, "Kromm's" new Owner-Master finally arrived to take possession of him and he was carried, still bound and gagged, to the Castra's Entrance Hall by four of his much younger fellow servants and given over to his new Owner-Master, who had "Kromm" placed into his conveyance, where he remained "hard-tied" and gagged for transport back to the new Owner's home Castra. kromm-009 450h x 632w Nov-2011
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ARCHIVED CAPTION VERBIAGE - These views shows the subject lying on the floor in the quarters of his "Primus-Pilus" or Chief Servant-Warden, where he has been placed after being bound, tied and gagged in preparation for being turned over to a new Master, who had failed to arrive prior to night-fall. He will spend the night here under the observation of the "Primus-Pilus", who will check to see that his bindings remain tight and secure during the night and will adjust or tighten them as necessary. "Primus-Pilus" ("First-Spear"), was a term often applied to the Prime or Head Servant-Warden of the Castra Household's Servant Corps.
Such "Hard-Tying" of a subject's legs rendered him virtually immobile and unable move from the location where he had been placed after being "bound and tied", hence this large and muscular 6', 3" tall servant-slave has been rendered into 220 pounds of immobile flesh and muscle, along with his 50+ pounds of leather body armor.
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