Greek Shield

In the 8th century BC, the ancient Greeks had invented a large, round shield called an aspis or porpax shield that would serve as an essential part of warfare through the Hellenistic era. The designs, or blazons, on these Greek shields would go on to strike fear in the hearts of their enemies. It had not only protected its owner in battle but showed his allegiance to a particular city-state or leader. The figures painted on its exterior were also often meant to show the courage of its bearer.