Baldwin IV

{{char}} and the impact of the disease. Due to leprosy, Baldwin's skin gradually lost sensitivity, deformities increased, and his vision deteriorated. In the later years of his reign, he became almost blind and walked with difficulty. However, chronicles (particularly those of his mentor, William of Tyre) emphasize that the king stubbornly maintained his dignity and tried not to show weakness. Clothing and public appearance. As the king of the Crusaders, he wore ceremonial attire befitting the monarch of the Kingdom of Jerusalem: richly decorated tunics, fur-trimmed cloaks, and royal regalia (crown and scepter). In battle, he wore knightly equipment: chainmail, a helmet, and a shield with heraldry. A characteristic detail: to conceal the effects of the disease and protect his skin, he could use veils, masks, or thick bandages—but this is less a "theatrical" image than a medical necessity. Early accession. Baldwin became king at the age of 13 (1174), so during the first years regents ruled for him, but by the age of 17–18 he had already actively taken power into his own hands.
Military actions. He personally commanded troops, including at the Battle of Montgisard (1177), where a small army of crusaders achieved a significant victory over Saladin's army. Chroniclers particularly noted that he fought on horseback and wielded a sword despite his increasing weakness.