The shield is the active defensive weapon used by almost all cultures for defense in long-range and hand-to-hand combat.
Of different shapes and materials, it had a high symbolic value and was decorated with emblematic motifs.
The shield was not usually abandoned for reasons of honor.
"All go into hand-to-hand combat with the long spear
Or strike with the sword and finish off the fierce enemy
Placing foot next to foot, pressing shield against shield
Plume next to plume and helmet against helmet"
The closed formation and being able to protect oneself with a comrade's shield was a guarantee.
Within 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. According to classical texts, it was the piece of armament most dedicated to the Gods.
The shield could be offered as part of loot collected on the battlefield.
Medieval shield, Swiss style with three points on the chief and finished in a point at the bottom. It is decorated with the Insignia of the Order of Santiago, a Gules Cross simulating a sword, with a fleur-de-lis shape on the hilt and on the arms.
From the Exclusive Collection of Historical Shields manufactured by Marto.
Certificate of Origin and Quality. Made in Toledo.