Medieval Heater Shield – Royal Arms of King Edward III - Outlet
Are you looking to bring the chivalry of the Plantagenet era to your home decor, or do you need the perfect finishing touch for your 14th-century knight's ensemble? This striking steel shield, emblazoned with the Royal Arms of King Edward III, is a piece that commands attention. Its design captures the essence of the Hundred Years' War and the intertwining history of England and France. Further product information ...
Medieval Heater Shield – Royal Arms of King Edward III – 28 Inch
This is a classic "Heater" shield, the quintessential shape for knights in the High Middle Ages. Evolving from the larger kite shields, the heater shield was smaller and more manageable, offering excellent protection for the torso while allowing for greater agility on horseback and foot.
Construction and Features
The shield is hand-crafted from 18-gauge mild steel (approx. 1.2 mm). This thickness provides a sturdy feel suitable for costume use, parades, LARP, and display, without being overly heavy. The face of the shield is curved to deflect blows. The reverse side is painted black to prevent rust and provide a clean finish.
For carrying and display, the shield features:
- Metal Grip: A sturdy, riveted metal handle on the back for a secure handhold.
- Arm Strap: An adjustable genuine leather strap with a buckle to secure the shield to your forearm, distributing the weight and allowing for proper control.
Historical Significance: The Quartered Arms
The heraldry on this shield is historically significant. It displays the "Quartered Arms" first adopted by King Edward III in 1340. By combining the three gold lions of England (passant guardant) with the fleurs-de-lis of France, Edward was visually declaring his claim to the French throne. The placement of the French lilies in the first and fourth quarters—positions of highest honour—was a bold statement of his intent, sparking a conflict that would last for generations.
| Specifications | |
| Material | Mild Steel (18 gauge) |
| Overall Height | approx. 28 inches (71 cm) |
| Width (Straight line) | approx. 18 inches (45.7 cm) |
| Width (Along curve) | approx. 20 inches (51 cm) |
| Weight | approx. 7 lbs (3.2 kg) |
| Fitting | Metal handle & adjustable leather strap |
Care Instructions
To keep your shield looking regal, keep it dry and clean. If used outdoors or handled frequently, apply a light coat of oil (like WD-40 or mineral oil) to any exposed metal parts to prevent rust. Condition the leather strap occasionally to keep it flexible.
Safety Note: This shield is intended for decorative purposes, costume wear, and light reenactment. It is not constructed for full-contact heavy combat (such as Buhurt), as the 18-gauge steel may dent under heavy weapon strikes.
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