Antique Spanish Combat Rodela Shield. 16th C. Spain, Circa 1570.

Superb and very antique Spanish rodela from the 16th century, an ancient heavy round shield made in Spain circa 1570 in great condition. Though being more than 400 years old, this piece is so well preserved and is worthy to belong to a museum of military history. Rodelas were heavy round shields used by Rodeleros, Spanish heavy infantry units equipped with shields and swords, very efficient in close combat and against units armed with spears or halberds. A good example of these units is the one which accompanied Hernan Cortés when he disembarked in Mexico: his army included more than 400 rodeleros among his men. Rodelas were also very popular during the Wars of Flanders. Rodelas were ideal for body-to-body combats. Some of them, like the one we are looking at, mounted iron spikes which turned them into both offensive and defensive weapons. The rodela which can be seen in the photographs weighs 3.7 kg and is 21.6 in / 55 cm in diameter, being a powerful and imposing item. It is complete and in fine condition it shows a delicate patina created by the trace of time, a great sign of his old age which provides it with a fine look. This antique Spanish rodela from the 16th century, an ancient heavy round shield as impressive as historical, will be one of the starring pieces of any self-respecting collection of old-time weapons. Dimensions: Diameter: 21.5 in / 55 cm. Weight: 3.700 kg.