Iron Shield Boss

3D Model

Iron Shield Boss or Umbo 1999.MAPS.B.7-1-46

Origin: Frankish region (current Borgharen)

Time period: 7th Century

Material: Iron

Dimensions: approx. 20cm diameter

Software: Agisoft Metashape Professional Edition

Hardware: Canon EOS 250D

Date of capture: 24 January 2023

Created by: Lea Stieg & Shani de Wit

This shield boss or umbo can be traced back to the second half of the seventh century. It was found in the grave of an elderly man alongside other belongings. Shield bosses acted as a protection for the hand of the shield bearer. They were made of wood or, as in this case, iron and fixed in the middle of the wooden shields. The design of this shield boss suggests that it originated in the Frankish region and the deep notches show the fierce battles in which the shield bearer was involved in.

Theme: Daily Life & Death