Random pic 22 October 2024
Roman legionary long shield: scutum (British Museum exhibition) https://flic.kr/p/2pViTG7Legionary defence
Despite the countless made, this is the only complete surviving Roman legionary long shield (scutum). It is from Rome's Syrian frontier, where the dry climate preserved the wood and its remarkable painted leather surface, but its semi-cylindrical shape is now more curled.On a military red background are Roman victory and regimental motifs including an eagle with a laurel wreath, winged Victories and a lion. Soldiers painted their shields for personal and unit recognition in a variety of designs. The centre hole is missing its metal boss.
Wood, leather and bronze
Dura-Europos, Syria
Early AD 200s
Yale University Art Gallery, Yale-French Excavations at Dura-Europos
[Text from BM exhibition label]
Michael Ixer ● 65d1 Comments