Roman cavalry generally favoured shields distinct from the rectangular infantry scutum, since a mounted trooper needed a lighter, more manoeuvrable shape that didn’t interfere with controlling a horse while still offering genuine coverage in melee. This reproduction recreates that oval cavalry pattern, suited to a mounted Roman impression.
Cavalry Scutum, Oval Pattern
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 reproduction recreates an oval scutum pattern associated with Roman cavalry, or equites, distinct from the rectangular infantry shield. A lighter, more manoeuvrable oval shape suited mounted troops who needed to control a horse as well as defend themselves.
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Shield Boss, Brass, Domed
SKU: AH6753BA shield boss, or umbo, is a round, convex or conical piece of material fitted at the centre of a shield, covering the handgrip while presenting a hardened point that could also serve as an offensive striking surface. This brass boss carries a rounded, domed profile, offering an alternative shape to our conical boss options. A decorative and functional centrepiece suited to a range of round shield builds.
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Republican Scutum, Oval Pattern
SKU: AH3877The 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 reproduction recreates the oval scutum of the Republican period, the form that preceded the more famous rectangular Imperial shield. Vertical curvature helped deflect blows while the oval profile maintained broad frontal coverage, a genuine tactical improvement over the earlier round shields derived from Etruscan and Greek tradition.
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Praetorian Guard Oval Scutum
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