Roman cavalry shield, 3rd-2nd century BC
This round shield was used by Roman and Italic cavalry during the Republican era.
This is a Roman cavalry shield described by Polybius, a famous Greek author of the 2nd century BC (Historiae, VI, 25). Roman and Italic cavalry are described as using a round shield, similar in shape to the pòpanon, a round pastry. It is a shield not unlike the shield used by the famous Numidian cavalrymen.
From Polybius’ description, we know that the popanum (pronounced “popànum” in Latin) must have been made of rawhide. In fact, the Greek author informs us that these shields became soft and pliable when wet, which is precisely the behavior of rawhide. This material, when completely dry, is very light and highly resistant: historically, it was also used to edge wooden shields.
Our replica is made of multiple layers of tanned leather. The leather is soaked, placed on a form, and left to dry in the sun. Finally, we added a shoulder strap and a handle to maximize the use of this shield on horseback.
The perfect choice for those seeking a one-of-a-kind shield and for historical reenactors who want to recreate Roman and Italic knights of the Republican period in a historically accurate and faithful manner.
