Shield (Scutum)


Paint on Wood and Rawhide, H. 105.5 cm, W. 41.0 cm, D. 30.0 cm. From Tower 19, Dura-Europos, mid-3rd century CE. Yale University Art Gallery, Yale-French Excavations at Dura-Europos: 1933.480. Photography © 2011 Yale University Art Gallery.

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Paint on Wood and Rawhide, H. 105.5 cm, W. 41.0 cm, D. 30.0 cm
From Tower 19, Dura-Europos, mid-3rd century CE
Yale University Art Gallery, Yale-French Excavations at Dura-Europos: 1933.715
Photography © 2011 Yale University Art Gallery

This painted shield is the best-preserved example of the classic shield used by Roman legionaries. Only the metal boss (umbo) that originally covered the handle is missing. The painted decoration reflects Roman iconography of victory and includes an eagle with a laurel wreath, winged victories, and a heraldic striding lion. While the shield has a clear utilitarian function, the painting is expressive, especially the depiction of the lion’s face, and very skillful.