HERALDIC SHIELD 35-951
These beautifully decorated shields are fabricated in heavy 18 gauge steel and feature an embossed lion design and and satin-steel finishes. They are equipped with wall hanger attachment on back. The Heraldic shield measures approx 25 inches in height, 20 inches wide and weighs approx 4 lbs.

Shields in Medieval Times
Shields are a broad piece of armor made of rigid material and strapped to the arm or carried in the hand for protection against hurled or thrusted weapons. Medieval shields were considered an extension of the knight's armor and were the perfect accessory to a suit of armor for self-defense. Mainly a defensive weapon, though some were fitted with spikes for offensive tactics, the shield was used to ward off incoming blows. They were either made of leather-covered wood or metal and were held by a handle or secured to the arm with leather straps.

The value of the medieval shield increased when combined with two-handed swords, heavy pole-arms and full plate armour. During the Middle Ages the shield was also a part of the coat of arms. A coat of arms was used to identify knights in battle and shields were often decorated with such crests and symbolic icons for such a purpose.

							MEDIEVAL •