Product description
Shields like this were a further development of the originals depicted on the Bayeux Tapestry. This type of kite shield was used in armies across Europe from the second half of the 12th century. The shield evolved from the earlier kite shield, which was likely introduced by the Normans around the early 11th century. After the First Crusade, kite shields were adopted by all Christian, Byzantine, and some Islamic armies. They were used by both infantry and cavalry.
In the 12th century, kite shields with a flat top, like this one, were preferred, allowing for better visibility over the shield. Shields of this type continued to be used well into the 13th century and were employed alongside heater shields, a shorter variant of this type of kite shield.
This shield is made of plywood and covered with a layer of unpainted white linen. It can be painted according to your preference. It measures 118 x 77 cm, with an inner width of 58 cm and a curvature radius of 22 cm.
