Viking Round Shield “Yggdrasil” with Rawhide Edging, 60 cm
Details:
– Material: plywood, solid wood handle with leather wrap, leather (rawhide) edging, steel boss
– Painted with the Yggdrasil
– Diameter: approx. 60 cm (23.6 inch)
– Thickness: approx. 13 mm
– Shield boss: overall Ø approx. 18 cm, bulge Ø approx. 13 cm, bulge height approx. 8 cm
– Weight: approx. 2.55 kg
This Viking round shield featuring an Yggdrasil motif combines the characteristic shape of an early medieval round shield with a striking design inspired by Norse mythology. Measuring approximately 60 cm in diameter, the wooden shield features a blue-green surface decorated with a bold, light-coloured Yggdrasil design. A central black steel boss and a surrounding cowhide rawhide rim provide distinctive contrasting details.
Crafted from approx. 13 mm thick plywood, this Viking shield stands out with its detailed craftsmanship. In its centre, the shield features a generously sized steel boss that is tightly held in place with four rivets, and leaves enough space to accommodate even stout Viking hands. The shield’s edge is clad with rawhide (parchment), and the back is fitted with three riveted reinforcement slats made of wood. The central slat also officiates as a handle and is leather-wrapped in its middle section for a comfortable grip.
Yggdrasil, the immense ash tree of Norse mythology, connects the different realms of the Norse cosmos. Its roots extend into the depths of the mythical world while its branches reach towards the heavens. As a symbol, Yggdrasil is associated with interconnectedness, fate and the structure of existence.
On this Viking shield, the World Tree is represented as a stylised, symmetrical ornament. Its light, interwoven branches create a striking contrast against the dark shield surface and give the piece a distinctive Norse and Viking-inspired appearance.
Combining wood, steel, cowhide rawhide and Norse-inspired decoration, this Viking round shield is well suited for reenactment, Living History, LARP, medieval events and historical presentations. It also makes an attractive decorative piece for collectors interested in the Viking Age and Norse mythology.
