Norman Kite Shield Blank for Painting
Become a knight with your own unique heraldry! This large Norman kite shield is the perfect blank canvas waiting for your custom design. Made from sturdy, 10 mm thick plywood and covered with a white-primed canvas, it provides the ideal surface for painting. Thanks to the fully fitted leather straps and padded arm-hold on the back, this shield is ready for action right out of the box, whether you're heading to a reenactment event, a LARP battle, or a stage combat performance. Further product information ...
Norman Kite Shield Blank for Painting
Create Your Custom Shield Design
The pre-primed white canvas front is your personal canvas. Unleash your creativity and adorn this wooden shield with your family's coat of arms, your LARP faction's symbol, or an accurate historical motif. This will transform your kite shield from a functional piece of armour into a unique work of art, perfect for making a statement on the battlefield or as a stunning piece of wall decor in your home.
The Kite Shield in History
This type of shield, known as the kite shield or teardrop shield, was the dominant form of protection for European warriors from the 10th to the 12th centuries. Its popularity is inextricably linked with the Normans, who masterfully used its design to their advantage during their conquests. The elongated shape offered excellent protection for a horseman's entire left side, from shoulder to ankle, which was a crucial advantage in cavalry combat. Infantry could also rest the shield's tip on the ground to form a formidable and nearly impenetrable shield wall.
A Piece of History: The Shield That Conquered England
Did you know that this exact type of shield played a key role in the famous Battle of Hastings in 1066? The army of William the Conqueror, equipped with these large Norman shields, is famously depicted on the historic Bayeux Tapestry. This unique artifact is one of our best sources, showing how these shields were instrumental in the Norman victory and the conquest of England.
How to Care For and Paint Your Shield
To ensure your shield serves you well for years to come and retains its look, follow these simple care instructions:
- Painting: We recommend using acrylic paints for the best results. Once dry, you can protect your design with a coat of clear varnish (matte or gloss) to guard against scratches and moisture.
- Storage: Keep the shield in a dry place to prevent the wood from warping. Avoid prolonged exposure to rain and high humidity.
- Cleaning: Simply wipe away any dirt with a slightly damp cloth.
- Leather Care: Treat the leather straps periodically with a leather conditioner to keep them supple and prevent cracking.
Product Specifications:
- Height: approx. 131 cm (51.6 inches)
- Width: approx. 56 cm (22 inches)
- Weight: approx. 2.9 kg (6.4 lbs)
- Thickness: approx. 10 mm (0.4 inches)
- Material: Plywood, canvas, leather
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