Designed for a decorative display in 19th-century parades, this French shield has been hand-worked in the repousse style, meaning the scene is hammered from the verso side, giving the images depth. Based on the original shield of King Henry II (circa 1555) that currently resides in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the central battle scene depicts the victory of Hannibal and the Carthaginians over the Romans in 216 BC at Cannae. The epic clash is surrounded by various trophies and cartouches, with a twisted rope outer edge, forming a convex kite shield.

Never intended for use in war, Etienne Delaune took 10 years to produce armor, a helmet, and a shield for King Henry. The original shield was discovered in an auction in France in the mid-1800s when there was renewed interest in decorative arts of the Renaissance. Our brass repousse shield is from the late 1800s and can be displayed on the wall of a study, game room, or hallway.

CONDITION: Very good antique condition. Minor buildup and light rubs. A hole has been cut near the top for hanging purposes.