The shield has been used by almost all human cultures for defense in combat, both long-range and close-range, due to its versatility in protecting the fighter from aggressions with thrown or wielded weapons.
Made with different materials such as leather, very resistant to arrows and spears; linen, copper, to reinforce the shield; bronze, which covered the outer surface; although the material par excellence was wood, which prevailed throughout history.
It could be manufactured in different ways depending on the type of protection for the combatant, from a simple, light, and resistant wicker weave, or perforated with a thick structure of joined pieces, or a single sculpted piece of wood.
In the Byzantine Empire, the oval shield prevailed. In the West, from the 10th century onwards, the almond-shaped shield, attributed to the Normans, was quite common, with a sharp lower point to stick it into the ground when troops halted. From the late 13th century to the 16th century, it tended towards an equilateral triangular shape.
Shields were covered with leather and painted with particular emblems or signs that formed the basis of coats of arms.
In the funerary context, the shield is an insignia that honors the deceased. It was an honor for the warrior to consecrate his own shield after his death in combat.
“…You will possess at least a bronze shield, in which you will be buried” (The Trojan Women by Euripides)”
Medieval Shield, Swiss style with three points at the top and pointed at the bottom. It is adorned with the Cross Pattée granted to the Order of the Knights Templar by Pope Eugene III in 1147.
From Marto's Exclusive Collection of Historical Shields.
Certificate of Origin and Quality. Made in Toledo.