The Amsterdam civic guard ordered dozens of these so-called Pisani corselets or breast plates. These suits of armour were not meant for use on the field or in battle but, rather, were a very lightweight form of decorative armour. If you were a rich guard member in the sixteenth century, you were expected to acquire a complete set of weaponry. Those with less to spend had only to bear the cost of a presentable suit of armour, whilst the poorest members carried nothing more than a weapon. The civic guard maintained order and security within the city walls, and in times of crisis the guard could be deployed for military duties outside their own city as well. However, it was the annual parade that took shape as their most important public appearance. The wealthiest members used this an opportunity to dress in extravagant clothing, as can be seen on many a civic guard group portrait.