Antique Rodela, Spanish Combat Shield. 16th century. Spain, circa 1570

Antique Rodela, Spanish Combat Shield. 16th century. Spain, circa 1570

A superb and antique 16th-century Spanish combat rodelaa heavy, round, antique shield made in Spain circa 1570 and in good condition. Despite being over 400 years old, this piece is very well-preserved and complete, and is worthy of a place in a military history museum. Rodelas were used by the rodeleros, Spanish heavy infantry units armed with swords and shields, which were highly effective in battles against pikemen and halberdiers. An example of this type of unit is the one that accompanied Hernán Cortés when he landed in Mexico: his army included more than 400 rodeleros among its ranks. Rodelas were widely used in the Wars of Flanders.

These shields were ideal for hand-to-hand combat; some, like the one in question, had spikes that made them both offensive and defensive weapons at the same time. The rodela shown in the images is made of steel, reinforced and decorated with flower-shaped gold rivets. It weighs 3.7 kilograms and measures 55 cm in diameter, making it a powerful and spectacular piece. It is complete and very well preserved; the steel displays a delicate patina created by age, which attests to its age and lends it great charm.

This antique 16th-century Spanish rodela, a shield as impressive as it is historic, will be one of the star pieces of any self-respecting collection of antique weapons.

Dimensions: Diameter: 55 cm. Weight: 3.700 kg.