September
12
/ 2023
In this fascinating exploration of unconventional medieval weaponry, we delve into a unique find: a shield adorned with throwing darts. These weapons, as Tod from YouTube’s Tod's Workshop and Matt Easton from Schola Gladiatoria discuss, present an intriguing historical mystery. This shield, designed to house five throwing darts on its inner side, is a rarity in the medieval period. It was inspired by a manuscript from 1433, " De ingeneis and De machinis,” attributed to Mariano Taccola. The darts themselves, resembling giant arrows, are a departure from the norm, with finger loops for throwing efficiency. While the purpose of these shield-mounted darts remains speculative, they likely served various roles, from disrupting cavalry charges to engaging in skirmishes. Their design, featuring
