Weight and grip of sarissa and shield in macedonian phalanx

[Paralus]

That's the one. Yes, that strap around the shoulder is the baldric for the scabbard and not a strap for the shield. The thureos could be an aspis done in perspective, but I don't think so - I can't think of examples of shields being shown in perspective like that from Hellenistic art. As for whether this guy is a hoplite, the angle and method with which he is holding the spear seems to me to be very awkward without the support of the left arm. It is particularly how far back it is that makes me think he is holding it with both arms.

It is a fascinating piece of art and highly unfortunate that so much of the detail is eroded.

Whilst it is not “impossible” that this is a hoplite holding a dory underarm, it is difficult to conceive why he would do so – particularly with that grip. I agree with Ruben that the grip – especially the rearward aspect of the right hand and the extrapolated placement of the left hand being near to a yard ahead of the right – clearly indicates something longer and heavier than a dory. The fellow’s legs have suffered some deterioration but there seems an indication of greaves – unlike the bloke to the rear who strikes me as “attendant” light infantry.

I might could be ‘seeing things’ though….