Ref: DHZ03

Viking shield

The type of shield used by the Vikings can be traced back to the Iron Age. It consists of thin planking, which forms a circular shape. In the middle is a dome of iron to protect the shield bearer’s hand. This is called the shield boss and is often the only part which is preserved after 1000 years in the ground. The date of a shield can be established from the form of the shield boss, which varied throughout the Iron Age and the Viking period. Shield bosses are often found in graves, in which shields accompanied the dead on their final journey.

This shield is painted red with serpent dragon design round the edge. 

Wooden construction, with steel boss and edging. Serpent dragon design on the shield.

Diameter: 60cm