Irish O’Donovan Targe – 16th Century Gaelic Irish Round Shield
Details:
– Material: wood and leather, brass studs, steel boss
– Diameter: approx. 45,5 cm
– Thickness: approx. 17 mm
– Weight: approx. 1.76 kg
This Irish targe styled after the O’Donovan clan recreates the shield tradition of Gaelic Irish warriors during the 16th century. Based on the historical targe tradition of Gaelic Ireland, it provides a distinctive alternative to the more commonly reproduced Scottish Highland targe.
The design follows the appearance of the illustrated historical-style model. The round shield features a rich dark reddish-brown surface decorated with an elaborate geometric pattern. Long, pointed sections radiate outward from the centre, creating a symmetrical, star-like arrangement across the shield.
Numerous brass rivets and the decorative steel boss in the centre emphasise the geometric layout and form a decorative border. The combination of dark reddish-brown and gold-coloured fittings gives the Targe a particularly impressive appearance.
The Gaelic-speaking clans of Ireland and Scotland maintained close cultural and martial connections throughout the medieval and early modern periods. Their shield traditions developed along related lines, although regional styles and historical contexts differed.
This reproduction is specifically styled as a 16th-century Irish targe associated with the O’Donovan clan of County Cork. It is therefore particularly well suited to representations of Gaelic Irish warriors and offers a historically inspired alternative to the more familiar Scottish targe.
