shield straps

[Mick Saunders]

I would be interested in any suggestions as to the arrangement
of straps behind a shield which does not have a boss. I have seen some arrangements which look remarkably similiar to the highland targe. Any thoughts as to how the straps are attached to the shield? With rivets? Or.....?

[Conal]

The shields which did not have bosses are the Thracian small shield , the Hoplo shield ( bowl type?) and maybe the Equites.

Thracian; Most images show that either a virtical or horisontal grip was used leading me to believe that no forearm strapping arrangements were used. There are some which indicate straps but I think it is accepted that the techniques used negate that.

Hoplomachus; The distinct bowl like shield may have had strapping but I have yet to see an image which shows the full inside arrangements.

Equites; This appears to have had a central grip rather than arm loops & straps.

One thing to keep in mind is that a Scottish targ was designed to counter broadswords & axes rather than thrusting weapons. Having a small shield strapped to your forearm has its limitations against thrusting weapons.

[Aurelianus]

There are some images from Thraex-shilds WITH bosses too!

[Mick Saunders]

Thanks gents.
I assume that a central grip would have been "solid" as opposed to leather? Perhaps wood or indeed metal? Leather held in the hand would have been too flimsy and hard to control, I assume?

[Conal]

I would be tempted to say yes for the reasons you say and would profer that it formed part of an internal stiffener rib of some sort.