This scutum is a product we are exceptionally proud of. It represents the result of our long-term work in experimental archaeology, combined with extensive experience gained through historical reenactment and practical testing.

The shield is based primarily on the famous archaeological finds from Dura-Europos, offering rare insight into Roman shield construction. The combination of high strength and low weight is not accidental — it is a direct outcome of ancient construction methods carefully reproduced and tested in practice.

Construction Features

Dimensions

• Height: 110 cm

• Width: 84 cm

• Total thickness: approx. 7 mm

Core construction

• Made from thin wooden planks, approx. 2 mm thick, arranged in layers

• Planks are joined using a method known in antiquity, comparable to a plywood technique

• This construction provides exceptional durability while keeping the shield lightweight

Surface covering

• Shield is covered with linen

• Standard version: linen applied to the entire surface

• Optional version: linen applied only to the front, leaving the wooden planks visible on the back

Ground layer

• Linen surface reinforced with a traditional gesso base (animal glue, gypsum, chalk), preparing the shield for painting and increasing durability

Grip & Protection

Hand slot

• Diameter: 12 cm

• Horizontal grip made from durable oak wood, designed to withstand significant pressure

Umbo (hand protection)

• Central umbo made from 1.5 mm steel sheet

• Provides effective protection for the hand in combat or training use

Edge Reinforcements

• Edges finished with either:

  • rawhide (raw skin), or

  • brass fittings

• Brass edges secured with small rivets based on finds from Vindonissa and Carnuntum

• Leather edges sewn using traditional methods

Finish & Aesthetics

Hand-painted decoration

• All shields are painted entirely by hand

• Designs based on archaeological finds and iconography (Dura-Europos, Vindonissa, Carnuntum)

Paint options

• Standard: high-quality acrylic paints

• On request: traditional casein (milk-protein) paints for increased historical accuracy

Custom designs

• Historical patterns

• Legion symbols

• Fully custom designs tailored to the client’s specifications

Additional Information

• Weight: approx. 6.5 kg, optimized for balance, durability, and usability

• Experience: construction methods refined through 20 years of historical reconstruction and testing

Why Choose Our Scutum?

• Authenticity
  Based directly on archaeological finds and historical iconography

• Experimental archaeology
  Not just a replica, but a tested reconstruction built to ancient principles

• Craftsmanship
  Fully handmade using traditional techniques

• Customization
  Materials, finish, edge type, and painting can all be tailored to individual needs

This scutum is not merely a visual reconstruction of Roman military equipment — it is a functional shield, built to be used, tested, and understood. Ideal for reenactors, museums, educators, and anyone seeking a deeply researched and expertly crafted Roman shield.