A shield is a piece of protective armour carried on the arm or in the hand to deflect blows and missiles, and, by extension, the shield-shaped form used in heraldry, ornament and design. In antiques the term covers genuine battle shields, ceremonial and parade shields, decorative trophies and the many objects shaped or decorated to resemble them.
Shields have been made in wood, leather, wicker and metal since ancient times. In medieval Europe the shield carried the heraldic arms of its bearer, which is why the shield or escutcheon became the basis of the coat of arms. Renaissance parade shields of embossed and damascened steel were made as works of art rather than for battle, and the nineteenth century produced elaborate repoussé silver, electrotype and cast-iron display shields, as well as racing and sporting trophies in shield form. Ethnographic shields from Africa, Asia and Oceania form a separate collecting field. The motif also appears in furniture, notably the Hepplewhite shield-back chair, and in silver cartouches. Collectors should check for later decoration, replaced straps and modern reproductions. Mounted on walls with arms and armour, shields create a dramatic display in halls and staircases.
