I picked up this old looking shield at a garage sale, only because it looked cool. It has some rusted rivets, and what looks to be either copper, or brass around the outside and tip. I know NOTHING about old armor (or armour...) and I was wondering if it might be from a movie prop, or something (maybe just decorative?)

Measures about 16.5 inches across, and 10 inches from edge to tip (diagonally)

Any help would be appreciated! Thanks!

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc39/prlyle/IMGP2034.jpg


http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc39/prlyle/IMGP2035.jpg



http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc39/prlyle/IMGP2036.jpg

Looks like a handmade shield to me.

This is an Ethiopian buckler. The inner core is usualy made of thick hide.

I wouldn't have known what it was, but Sa'ar's observation seems on the money. Here we go...

Quote:

Buckler of buffalo leather, from Ethiopia. Black leather, silver knobs with geometrical and plant ornaments. Lined inside with light-coloured leather; leather grip. Booty from a Turkish camp.

[ Linked Image ]

The outside certainly looks like an Ethiopian shield. I've never seen one with a grip like this. Is this a modern decorative version?

(In the close-up of the boss, it looks like the black surface of the shield is black denim. It is cloth-covered?)