Pavise Shield

By Crusader1307

A specially designed shield used by archers and crossbowmen. Developed in Pavia, Italy around the 10th Century - it was smaller than the typical infantry shield. Created with a conclave (sloping) pattern, it would be worn on the back easily. It also doubled as a form of lightweight armor when worn in this fashion. They were light and constructed of wood reinforced (covered) with coarse brushed cow hide. Often looked at as being designed "crooked or broken", it was in this that the design was effective. The upper right quadrant of the shield was designed with a "portion" appearing missing or much lower. This would allow the archer or crossbowman to be able to peer over and fire his weapon safety (from either a holding or reinforced/grounded position). This allowed for the maximum protection for the user. Many of these shields were colorfully embellished with religious or military subjects painted directly onto the front of the shield. A very early form of "military art".