Domed Round Steel Shield

Description of the Product

The shield is most likely the first man made defensive artifact, and thus the history of shield use goes well beyond written history. Shields have been made of wood, leather, twined of twigs, all possible metals, even of turtle shells. Domed shields made of steel like this remained popular from the 13th to the 17th century.

This shield type is often called a rotella. Rotella shields were commonly used by fencers and in duels in civilian life in addition to use during war by soldiers. Many soldiers preferred a smaller and lighter shield like this to the full-size wooden shield in order to be able to move more quickly. Although it did not give as a good a cover as a larger model, the speed it enabled could in many circumstances be lifesaver. Quick and easily manageable, they endured battle very well. The outward-turning edge of the shield reflected the impact of an enemy blade away, as well as strengthening the edge.

• Made of 1.6 mm thick (18 gauge) steel
• Durable leather grips that can be easily replaced if needed
• Weight 2.4 kg (6 lbs)
• Diameter 59 cm (23 1/8”)
• Made by Windlass Steelcrafts