Shield (Targone)
This group of unusual armor and weapons (acc. nos. 14.25.770, .771; 29.30.2; 2012.134a, b) demonstrates the enduring versatility of the shield. They were used in a mock combat known as the Gioco del Ponte, held in Pisa sporadically from medieval times until 1807 and briefly revived in the 1930s (the date of the painted decoration). In a fight for control of the Ponte di Mezzo bridge, teams wearing helmets and breastplates used the wood targone as both shield and club. The distinctive forms are unique to the event. Decorations include the insignia of the wearer's squadron and images of the participant using the targone to attack.
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