Medieval Shield, Red Cross of the Order of Calatrava 963.14

The shield is an active defense weapon since, unlike weapons that protect by “wearing the body” (breastplate, helmet, etc.), the shield can be moved by its bearer, and by pushing with it they could break through and break the narrow enemy ranks.
The shield was not usually abandoned as a matter of honour, but also because it was not so easy in a moment of danger to run and throw away a shield. The fact of not abandoning one's shield on the battlefield was interpreted as a symbol of the warrior's courage.
Close formation and being able to protect oneself with one's partner's shield was a guarantee.

“Each soldier tries to cover his exposed side as much as possible with the shield of the man aligned to his right…” (Thucydides)

Medieval shield, Swiss style, with three points on the boss and a pointed tip at the bottom. It is decorated with the Cross of Calatrava, a Greek cross of gules, with its arms shaped like fleurs-de-lis.

• • Size 63x43 cm
• • Handcrafted, one by one, by MARTO artisans
• • Cross of the Order of Calatrava in red in the heart of the Shield.
• • Adorned with studs all around.

Excellent Shield from the Exclusive “Historical Shields” Collection manufactured by Marto.
Certificate of Origin and Quality. Made in Toledo.