⚔️HAVE✋🛡️"SCVTVM". The shield of a "Roman Milites of Dura-Europos, dated to the 3rd sec. D.C., is an exceptional archaeological repertoire and the only Roman rectangular shield preserved almost entirely. Found in the ancient fortified city of Dura-Europos, in modern-day Syria, it is in excellent condition today thanks to the desert climate which preserved its wood and decorations.
The main features of the shield include:
Structure: Made with multiple layers of glued wood, covered with a layer of fabric and finally painted leather.
Dimensions: Measurements approximately CVIII cm high and LXII cm wide.
"VMBO" {umbone}: It presented a metal spur in the center, used to divert the shots and hit the opponent with a delay to offset him and then counterattack by hitting him with "GLADIVS".
Decorations: The design includes solar motifs, vegetable garlands, eagles and lions, probably hand-painted and tied for ceremonial or symbolic purposes. In the pictures the original shield and a modern reconstruction. 🛡️⚔️