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WABUKAN Arsenal · Shields · Europe

Aspis (hoplon)

The large, deeply dished round shield of the Greek hoplite, carried on the forearm and resting on the shoulder.

Aspis (hoplon)
Aspis (hoplon) WABUKAN illustration

Also known as

aspis (ἀσπίς); hoplon; porpax shield; Argive shield

Origin and history

The aspis appeared in Greece in the late 8th or early 7th century BC and became the defining equipment of the hoplite, the citizen soldier who fought in a close phalanx. Its new grip gave the hoplite more mobility and helped hold the phalanx together. How much the ranks literally pushed against each other (the othismos) is still debated by historians.

Martial arts that use it

Seen in traditional practice, historical reenactment and demonstrations; no art page on WABUKAN yet.

Construction

Wood, often more than 90 cm across, 2.5 to 4 cm thick and about 7 kg, sometimes faced with a thin sheet of bronze or bronze only on the rim. The Argive grip used a central armband (porpax) for the forearm and a handle (antilabe) near the edge, so the weight could rest on the shoulder.

Basic techniques

Training

Shield work starts with how to hold and carry it: the grip, keeping it between you and the opponent, and moving behind it without dropping the guard. Blocks, covers and pushes are then drilled with a partner using wooden or padded weapons, slowly at first.

Safety

Check straps, grips and the rim before each session: a loose strap or a split board can injure the hand. Keep the top edge of the shield away from your partner’s face and wear a helmet for any contact work.

Legality (general information)

This is training or traditional equipment, not a weapon, and is generally free to buy and own. Clubs and federations may still set rules on approved models and condition. General information, not legal advice.

Did you know?

Only one aspis has survived well enough to show how it was built: the "Bomarzo" shield, found in 1830 in central Italy and now in the Vatican’s Museo Gregoriano Etrusco.

More weapons

Dhal Targe Scutum Buckler Tinbe-rochin

Sources

Original WABUKAN text, written from these cross-checked sources (facts, not sentences).

  1. Wikipedia — Aspis (hoplon)
  2. Wikipedia — Hoplite