The Scottish targe’s concave, or hollow, shape, combined with an internal arm strap and grip, gave Highland warriors a shield that could be angled to deflect blows while remaining light enough to manoeuvre in close combat. Its design influences reached back to Iberian and broader European shield traditions before becoming a distinctly Scottish Highland form, remaining central to Highland warfare until it was formally banned following the Jacobite defeat at Culloden. This reproduction recreates that concave targe pattern.
Scottish Targe, Concave Pattern
The targe, another name for shield, was used mainly by Highland troopers from the 13th through the 18th centuries, its design said to have originated in Spain. A concave shield fitted with a spike and grip, the targe combined defensive coverage with a genuine offensive capability. This reproduction recreates that classic Scottish Highland shield form.
External Reading
Related products
-
The targe is one of the most iconic defensive arms of the Scottish Highland warrior, deeply associated with the final chapter of the Jacobite rising at the Battle of Culloden in 1746. This reproduction is crafted from wood overlaid with leather bearing an embossed Celtic design, with a brass shield boss and numerous brass studs, and a suede leather back with an integrated pocket for a 6¼-inch steel spike. Unlike most shields, the targe was not discarded as firearms came to dominate the battlefield — its thick wooden core could stop grapeshot and deflect musket balls as well as blades.
-
Roman Arena Shield, Linen Covered
SKU: AH3992LThe 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.
-
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.
-
Shield Boss, Embossed Decoration
SKU: AH6755BA 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 striking point. This version carries embossed decoration across its surface, a treatment seen on higher-status surviving and depicted historical examples. A striking centrepiece suited to a wearer or collector wanting a more decorative shield build.
