Shield Boss (Umbo)
Shield bosses were attached to the center of a circular wooden shield. This example, and another also in the Metropolitan Museum's collection (acc. no. 1984.184.1) are thought to have been made in northern Italy, the heart of the Langobardic Kingdom from the late sixth to the mid-eighth century. The majority of surviving Langobardic shield bosses are made of plain iron. Some, like these examples, are more richly decorated with engraved appliqués of gilt bronze. The crosses and fish that decorate this boss suggest that its owner was a Christian.
Artwork Details
- Title: Shield Boss (Umbo)
- Date: 7th century
- Culture: Western European, Langobardic
- Medium: Iron, copper alloy, gold
- Dimensions: Diam. 7 in. (17.78 cm); D. 3 1/2 in. (8.89 cm)
- Classification: Metalwork-Iron
- Credit Line: Purchase, Rogers Fund and Bequest of Stephen V. Grancsay, by exchange, 1984
- Object Number: 1984.184.2
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
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Western European, Langobardic
7th century
Western European, Langobardic
7th century
On loan to The Met
Germanic or Scandinavian
ca. 850–900
Eastern European
9th century
Norwegian
800
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