Name: Reinforced Norman kite shield
Brand: Deepeeka
SKU: 1101062600
Price: 206.00 USD
Availability: InStock

Leather belt strip brown 4 x 180-190 cm
$ 34 Excl. VAT

Product description

This shield type is based on originals depicted in the Bayeux Tapestry (1066), the Codex Aureus Epternacensis (early 11th century), and the chronicle Liber ad honorem Augusti sive de rebus Siculis (1196). The Normans likely introduced shields of this design, and after the First Crusade, Christian, Byzantine, and some Islamic armies all carried them. They offered excellent protection for both cavalry and infantry. On long marches, soldiers often carried the shield on their back — sometimes upside down.

In the second half of the 12th century, flat-topped shields gradually replaced this style. Early examples like this one still featured a shield boss — a tradition carried over from the round shield, where it protected the grip. On kite shields the boss no longer served that practical role, but it gave the soldier an offensive option: a direct thrust in close combat.

Made from 1.3 cm thick wood, the shield features a steel boss and cross reinforcement. Five leather straps on the back ensure a comfortable fit. It measures 139 cm tall, 60 cm wide, and weighs 4.5 kg.