Gladiator equipment drew heavily on genuine Roman military design, and the scutum, adapted for arena use, remained a core piece of kit for heavier gladiator classes such as the murmillo and secutor, who fought with a large shield much like a legionary’s. This reproduction recreates that arena-style scutum, finished with a period-accurate linen covering.
Roman Arena Shield, Linen Covered
The scutum was the primary form of body protection carried by Roman soldiers, deflecting incoming missiles as well as absorbing the impact of hand-held weapons in close combat. This version reflects the shields used in the Roman arena, adapted from military scutum design for use by certain classes of gladiator. Finished with a linen covering, this reproduction combines historical construction technique with a genuine arena aesthetic.
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