Question about aspis/hoplon shield

[hoplite14gr]

Most art depictions show a separte antilave.
The depictions that show a hoplite holding only a rope -at least those that i am aware of- are too damaged and open to much interpretation.
That means that most likely the rope was was for carrying the shield.
From personal experience (most of our club members agree too)the shieled is more
manageable with a separate "antilave" - specially one made of solid material

Do not limit your selves to hard fiber natural rope either.
In Crete the sheepherders still make excellent rope from sheep wool that is strong and smooth and makes carrying of heavy objects comfortable

hope I helped

Kind regards