{"product_id":"the-shield-of-hastings-iron-bound-plain-walnut-kite-shield","title":"The Shield of Hastings Iron-Bound Plain Walnut Kite Shield","description":"\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Norman Warrior’s Bulwark Premium Textured Plank Kite Shield\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1bw7wp4\" dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"437\" data-end=\"459\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eProduct Description\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"461\" data-end=\"768\"\u003eThis exceptional \u003cstrong data-start=\"478\" data-end=\"514\"\u003eHandcrafted Medieval Kite Shield\u003c\/strong\u003e represents \u003cstrong data-start=\"526\" data-end=\"548\"\u003eMedieval Shield #4\u003c\/strong\u003e in the Viking Blade Crafts collection. It marks a transition from the compact Heater Shield profile of the previous models to the elongated \u003cstrong data-start=\"689\" data-end=\"720\"\u003eKite Shield \/ Norman Shield\u003c\/strong\u003e form associated with the early medieval period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"770\" data-end=\"1044\"\u003eThe shield combines a tall, gently arched upper section with a dramatically tapered lower point. Its plain, deeply textured walnut-stained wooden face is reinforced by a substantial central metal boss, four full-length structural iron straps, and a matching metal perimeter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"1046\" data-end=\"1225\"\u003eThe result is a rugged, understated medieval shield that emphasizes \u003cstrong data-start=\"1114\" data-end=\"1195\"\u003enatural wood character, exposed metalwork, and practical structural detailing\u003c\/strong\u003e rather than painted heraldry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1rqeodv\" dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"1232\" data-end=\"1255\"\u003eTechnical Description\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-section-id=\"1vvbe4f\" dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"1257\" data-end=\"1299\"\u003eThe Core Construction \u0026amp; Shape Typology\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"1301\" data-end=\"1503\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1301\" data-end=\"1327\"\u003eThe Kite Shield Shape:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1327\" data-end=\"1330\"\u003eThis shield features the distinctive elongated \u003cstrong data-start=\"1377\" data-end=\"1392\"\u003eKite Shield\u003c\/strong\u003e profile, with a gently arched upper edge and broad shoulders that progressively narrow toward the lower point.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"1505\" data-end=\"1794\"\u003eUnlike the shorter Heater Shield, the extended lower section gives the shield a much taller defensive silhouette. The broad upper portion provides substantial coverage while the tapered lower section creates the characteristic teardrop-shaped appearance associated with Norman-era shields.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"1796\" data-end=\"2073\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1796\" data-end=\"1828\"\u003eThe Plain Walnut Plank Body:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1828\" data-end=\"1831\"\u003eThe face is constructed from vertically aligned solid wood planks. The wood remains \u003cstrong data-start=\"1915\" data-end=\"1928\"\u003eunpainted\u003c\/strong\u003e, receiving instead a rich \u003cstrong data-start=\"1955\" data-end=\"1982\"\u003edark walnut-brown stain\u003c\/strong\u003e that emphasizes the natural grain, knots, ridges, and variations across the plank surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"2075\" data-end=\"2222\"\u003eThe textured wood provides the shield with a rugged, naturally aged appearance while allowing the structural ironwork to remain visually prominent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"ncxrxl\" dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"2229\" data-end=\"2261\"\u003eThe Heavy Iron Reinforcements\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"2263\" data-end=\"2506\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2263\" data-end=\"2291\"\u003eThe Central Boss (Umbo):\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2291\" data-end=\"2294\"\u003eA prominent rounded metal dome occupies the center of the shield. Its polished surface creates a strong contrast against the darker walnut wood and gives the center of the shield a substantial armored appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"2508\" data-end=\"2697\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2508\" data-end=\"2542\"\u003eThe 4-Spoke Cross-Strap Armor:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2542\" data-end=\"2545\"\u003eFour substantial forged-metal straps extend outward from the central boss toward the perimeter, forming a large structural cross across the shield face.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"2699\" data-end=\"2866\"\u003eThe straps are securely riveted through the wooden planks and visually divide the shield into four reinforced sections while providing additional structural character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"2868\" data-end=\"3022\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2868\" data-end=\"2899\"\u003eThe Forged Metal Outer Rim:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2899\" data-end=\"2902\"\u003eThe entire perimeter is enclosed by a substantial forged-metal rim following the complete elongated Kite Shield profile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"3024\" data-end=\"3160\"\u003eThe metal border provides a strong contrasting frame around the dark wooden face and is secured with evenly spaced structural fasteners.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"3162\" data-end=\"3165\"\u003e\n\u003ch1 data-section-id=\"1yacdw6\" dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"3167\" data-end=\"3191\"\u003eHistorical Perspective\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-section-id=\"1wiiwal\" dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"3193\" data-end=\"3222\"\u003e1. The Norman Kite Shield\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"3224\" data-end=\"3368\"\u003eThe Kite Shield became strongly associated with Norman and early medieval European warfare, particularly during the \u003cstrong data-start=\"3340\" data-end=\"3367\"\u003e11th and 12th centuries\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"3370\" data-end=\"3627\"\u003eIts elongated profile provided greater coverage than the smaller shields that followed later. The broad upper section could protect the torso while the long tapered lower portion extended downward, making the form particularly suitable for mounted warriors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"3629\" data-end=\"3730\"\u003eThe iconic teardrop silhouette became one of the most recognizable shield forms of the Norman period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-section-id=\"1dimg0p\" dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"3732\" data-end=\"3773\"\u003e2. The Practical Appeal of Plain Wood\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"3775\" data-end=\"3920\"\u003eUnlike heraldic shields covered with elaborate painted designs, this model emphasizes the visual character of the underlying wooden construction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"3922\" data-end=\"4159\"\u003eThe dark walnut finish allows the natural grain and individual plank character to remain visible. The restrained appearance gives the shield the feel of a practical early medieval defensive piece rather than a ceremonial heraldic shield.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-section-id=\"14gl9fi\" dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"4161\" data-end=\"4196\"\u003e3. The Structural Cross-Bracing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"4198\" data-end=\"4292\"\u003eThe four metal straps create a visually prominent reinforcement system across the wooden face.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"4294\" data-end=\"4531\"\u003eRather than relying solely on the perimeter and central boss, the cross arrangement visually connects the central portion of the shield with its outer edges. The resulting design gives the shield a heavily reinforced, armored appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-section-id=\"1ndlsbv\" dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"4533\" data-end=\"4556\"\u003e4. The Central Boss\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"4558\" data-end=\"4809\"\u003eThe central boss is one of the defining components of traditional shield construction. Positioned over the hand-grip area, the boss creates additional space between the shield face and the user's hand while forming a strong central protective element.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"4811\" data-end=\"4923\"\u003eOn this modern interpretation, the polished metal finish provides a striking contrast with the dark walnut wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"nh62sj\" dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"4930\" data-end=\"4954\"\u003eProduct Specifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"4956\" data-end=\"6033\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1jr6niy\" data-start=\"4956\" data-end=\"5011\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"4958\" data-end=\"4970\"\u003eProduct:\u003c\/strong\u003e The Norman Vanguard Medieval Kite Shield\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1wwnihu\" data-start=\"5073\" data-end=\"5112\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5075\" data-end=\"5091\"\u003eShield Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medieval Kite Shield\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"5kgvkx\" data-start=\"5113\" data-end=\"5169\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5115\" data-end=\"5136\"\u003eHistorical Style:\u003c\/strong\u003e Norman \/ Early Medieval Inspired\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"8jow8r\" data-start=\"5170\" data-end=\"5204\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5172\" data-end=\"5193\"\u003ePrimary Material:\u003c\/strong\u003e Solid Wood\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"qig1oq\" data-start=\"5205\" data-end=\"5252\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5207\" data-end=\"5226\"\u003eShield Profile:\u003c\/strong\u003e Elongated Kite \/ Teardrop\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1m4vkz2\" data-start=\"5253\" data-end=\"5292\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5255\" data-end=\"5276\"\u003eWood Orientation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Vertical Planks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"z3nkgg\" data-start=\"5293\" data-end=\"5329\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5295\" data-end=\"5311\"\u003eWood Finish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dark Walnut-Brown\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"xkoy7d\" data-start=\"5330\" data-end=\"5381\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5332\" data-end=\"5349\"\u003eWood Texture:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deeply Textured \/ Natural Grain\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1lkz0g2\" data-start=\"5382\" data-end=\"5419\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5384\" data-end=\"5401\"\u003eFace Artwork:\u003c\/strong\u003e None — Plain Wood\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"xxezcd\" data-start=\"5420\" data-end=\"5445\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5422\" data-end=\"5439\"\u003eCentral Boss:\u003c\/strong\u003e Metal\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"flr98o\" data-start=\"5446\" data-end=\"5476\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5448\" data-end=\"5463\"\u003eBoss Style:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rounded Dome\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"v4p5bx\" data-start=\"5477\" data-end=\"5510\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5479\" data-end=\"5495\"\u003eBoss Finish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Polished Metal\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"10eejpz\" data-start=\"5511\" data-end=\"5562\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5513\" data-end=\"5531\"\u003eCross Bracing:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4-Spoke Structural Metal Cross\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"7487kh\" data-start=\"5563\" data-end=\"5592\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5565\" data-end=\"5579\"\u003eOuter Rim:\u003c\/strong\u003e Forged Metal\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1n1z283\" data-start=\"5593\" data-end=\"5639\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5595\" data-end=\"5610\"\u003eRim Finish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Polished \/ High-Luster Metal\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"vdpbby\" data-start=\"5640\" data-end=\"5692\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5642\" data-end=\"5665\"\u003eRivets \/ Fasteners:\u003c\/strong\u003e Structural Metal Fasteners\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1h17zrf\" data-start=\"5693\" data-end=\"5733\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5695\" data-end=\"5709\"\u003eRear Grip:\u003c\/strong\u003e Central Horizontal Grip\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1iwko90\" data-start=\"5734\" data-end=\"5768\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5736\" data-end=\"5758\"\u003eAvailable Heights:\u003c\/strong\u003e 30\" \u0026amp; 24\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"17jp4gh\" data-start=\"5769\" data-end=\"5820\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5771\" data-end=\"5802\"\u003eMaximum Width — 30\" Height:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 22\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"j9po0t\" data-start=\"5821\" data-end=\"5872\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5823\" data-end=\"5854\"\u003eMaximum Width — 24\" Height:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 18\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"72zrwl\" data-start=\"5873\" data-end=\"5934\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5875\" data-end=\"5902\"\u003eMaximum Width Position:\u003c\/strong\u003e Upper portion, close to the top\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1ecq9tq\" data-start=\"5935\" data-end=\"5974\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5937\" data-end=\"5947\"\u003eTheme:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medieval \/ Norman \/ Knight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1pqpb73\" data-start=\"5975\" data-end=\"6033\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"5977\" data-end=\"5999\"\u003eHistorical Status:\u003c\/strong\u003e Modern Handcrafted Interpretation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"eph7wp\" dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"6040\" data-end=\"6057\"\u003eAvailable Sizes\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-section-id=\"1lmnz94\" dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"6059\" data-end=\"6073\"\u003e30\" Height\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"6074\" data-end=\"6109\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"6074\" data-end=\"6109\"\u003eApproximately 22\" maximum width\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-section-id=\"18o47tp\" dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"6111\" data-end=\"6125\"\u003e24\" Height\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"6126\" data-end=\"6161\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"6126\" data-end=\"6161\"\u003eApproximately 18\" maximum width\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"6163\" data-end=\"6369\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"6167\" data-end=\"6239\"\u003emaximum width is positioned close to the upper portion of the shield\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the Kite Shield has its broadest shoulder area. From this upper section, the sides gradually taper toward the lower point.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1ou4yso\" dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"6376\" data-end=\"6404\"\u003eWhy This Shield Stands Out\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"6406\" data-end=\"6876\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1sbapj3\" data-start=\"6406\" data-end=\"6451\"\u003eClassic \u003cstrong data-start=\"6416\" data-end=\"6440\"\u003eMedieval Kite Shield\u003c\/strong\u003e silhouette\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1m87f0a\" data-start=\"6452\" data-end=\"6487\"\u003eNorman-inspired elongated profile\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"lom97r\" data-start=\"6488\" data-end=\"6552\"\u003eBroad upper section with maximum width positioned near the top\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"vp0wsp\" data-start=\"6553\" data-end=\"6587\"\u003eDramatically tapered lower point\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1fr4zay\" data-start=\"6588\" data-end=\"6629\"\u003eNatural-looking dark walnut wood finish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"14uxewj\" data-start=\"6630\" data-end=\"6669\"\u003eDeeply visible wood grain and texture\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1110a8u\" data-start=\"6670\" data-end=\"6703\"\u003eProminent polished central boss\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"20xqs7\" data-start=\"6704\" data-end=\"6741\"\u003eFour-spoke structural metal bracing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"13azctr\" data-start=\"6742\" data-end=\"6768\"\u003eMatching metal perimeter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"xttzj3\" data-start=\"6769\" data-end=\"6803\"\u003eMinimalist plain-wood appearance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"695d5j\" data-start=\"6804\" data-end=\"6837\"\u003eStrong early-medieval character\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1en4mhg\" data-start=\"6838\" data-end=\"6876\"\u003eAvailable in \u003cstrong data-start=\"6853\" data-end=\"6876\"\u003e30\" and 24\" heights\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"46vkux\" dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"6883\" data-end=\"6924\"\u003ePerfect Medieval \u0026amp; Norman Display Piece\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"6926\" data-end=\"7166\"\u003eThis handcrafted shield makes a striking addition to \u003cstrong data-start=\"6979\" data-end=\"7165\"\u003eNorman collections, medieval knight displays, early medieval décor, historical-inspired interiors, castle-themed displays, medieval wall collections, and European warrior collections\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"7168\" data-end=\"7355\"\u003eIts combination of the elongated Kite Shield silhouette, dark natural wood, polished central boss, and full cross-bracing gives it a particularly strong \u003cstrong data-start=\"7321\" data-end=\"7354\"\u003eNorman-era medieval aesthetic\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Viking_Blade_Crafts","offers":[{"title":"24 Inches Height","offer_id":67605754609916,"sku":"VBC-MS-05","price":275.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"30 Inches Height","offer_id":67605754642684,"sku":"VBC-MS-06","price":375.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0736\/7622\/6812\/files\/1_1_0a02bb2a-f052-4a8d-af25-838e40fb4bd8.jpg?v=1790691761","url":"https:\/\/vikingbladecrafts.com\/products\/the-shield-of-hastings-iron-bound-plain-walnut-kite-shield","provider":"Viking Blade Crafts ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}