Red Lion Shield

Germany · c. 1420 AD · European Series

Bearing a heraldic red lion on a field of gold, this tall German heater shield draws on the knightly tradition of tournament and parade culture that flourished across the Holy Roman Empire.

Constructed from two plywood boards, oiled for water resistance, the shield is reinforced with several layers of linen, coated in gesso, and painted with the lion device. The design is rendered in vermilion over a bole-prepared gold ground. The rim is bound in rawhide and stitched with waxed linen thread. Two leather straps form the grip, while a separate guige allows the shield to be carried over the shoulder. The internal structure includes a padded canvas backing for improved impact absorption.