Small Hand Pavise

XV century shield ready to paint.

While the pavise was originally observed as a large shield used in the late XIV-XV century for crossbowmen to hide behind, it late evolved into the hand pavise. The pavise kept its same signature shape and got smaller, becoming an arm mounted shield especially popular for duelling. It was popular in the late XV century and can be found in many different historical references, including a woodcut with the german Landsknecht. The paint jobs on these little shields were often bright and aesthetically fantastic looking, making them quite an accessory as well as a weapon.

Constructed from plywood, this lovely little pavise includes the characteristic spine down the middle and rectangular shape. The spine itself is a seperate piece of plywood, and the whole shield is very structurally sound. It has been completely covered with a very medieval looking coarse linen, which enhances the structural integrity and provides you with great texture for painting. The linen at the front of the pavise is painted white to save you the trouble of having to prime it.

The back of this shield includes a strap and a handle to allow for easy arm mounting. The handle is wrapped in leather for comfort, allowing it to fit smoothly into your hand. A strap will connect it to your arm, giving you the ability to hold it vertically and move strategically, all under the comfort of robust leather. All of the leather straps are secured with galvanised furniture bolts, which are a modern convenience that goes practically unnoticed whilst making this shield much more robust.

This pavise is primed and ready for paint, so it’s up to you how ostentatious you decide to make it! Historically, pavise were often lacquered with bright colours and scenes depicting scenes, coat of arms and latin phrases. How will you paint it - we would love to see your finished piece!

Please contact us if you have any additional questions.