I would use it to stack shields vertically in a wall formation. The spikes of the two shields below would form a ledge for the offset row above (like scale armour) the "button" should stop the top sheild sliding off.
I have often wondered what the nipples stalks of migration era bosses were for.... I have decided they are DEFINITELY there to confuse archeologists! Lol
I remember in grade school I used to make strange symbols (didn't mean anything) on papers and stashed them in hidden places and people's bags. Good times
@@LoremasterRelomi I did a similar thing with silly rumors. Like "so & so is actually an alien 👽" or something stupid but harmless.. In college for a few years after Halloween parties me g some friends would dawn all black &fairy wings to do pointless pranks. We called ourselves the Chaos Fairies lol One year we left plastic wrapped toast on the hoods of people's cars, another time we prank called people & would say in a deep rumbly voice "Hello...I hope you have a good day tomorrow!" Then hang up. I always have enjoyed messing with people in ways that are non- harmful. I let them know if they don't catch on as the best part is seeing them laugh at it all too. In a college class I played it straight as I explained my 'theory' about how Helen of Troy was actually ugly! I said the phrase "the face that launched 1000 ships" was misunderstood and folks assume it means she was so beautiful that the ships came to her rescue. But in reality it was a joke told by sailors who all saw her & wanted to run! Lol
I'm sure it disappeared after an enemy on some forgotten battlefield shouted: "Oh look, a boob wall!" and nobody would be caught dead with one since then.
I don't know. Men throughout history have brought masturbatory aids with them on campaign. Maybe they were all playing the skin flute to their giant wall of boobage.
This is Thrand, I call it a shield nail or boss nail. Matt I did a few videos on neck and nail use on bosees on my channel ThregnThrand. Excellent video many do not know about them nor consider there uses! I believe they were used to help trap blades and manipulate shields.
Hi, Matt. Thanks for all of the great videos. When you said "...in a Shield Wall,...." I immediately envisioned a series of shields, with bosses like that, when overlapped with the buttons of each securely locked onto the rim of its fellows to either side. This would make a fairly strong wall, if the men holding them could keep them together. However, the difficulty in trying to train men in maintaining such tactics, in full combat could have led to their later falling into relative Historical (and Archaeological) obscurity.
I tend to go down this route a lot (mostly because few people do), but maybe it's just decoration? Not everything necessarily needs to have a use. Considering they're not usually all that robust, and that they weren't used earlier and weren't used later, it would suggest some kind of change in stylistic taste, precisely because they might not have had an actual use.
Different subject entirely, but I was wondering whether you have any thoughts on why the pistol grip (as used in modern olympic foil and epee fencing) hadn't appeared earlier in thrusting weapons. It seems to me that it provides a much stronger grip than a straight "French" or "Italian" grip. Cheers.
I think they could be for interlocking the shields in the shield wall. Either bracing against the edge of your neighbour's shield or at least preventing one shield being pushed across the face of the next opening a gap. Glad you've got you camera kit back.
How? It's a centrally held shield. In order for you to reach your neighbors's nipple with the edge of your shield, the edge of _his_ shield has to pass halfway through your wrist.
If the historical examples are found on a individual basis, then I would look for some sort of supplemental armor that has a corresponding button hole. Maybe a woven matt that could be constructed when additional protection was needed. If they were issued to the entire formation, then I would look to the mechanics of the shield wall. The length of the button would probably be close to the edge with of four shields. If they whent to the trouble of forge weldind a button to improve the shield wall, then there would probably be four corresponding notchs on the edge of the shield to catch an lock in the other buttons. With the shield locked up like that you may even be able to make a impromptu bridge. Some would have to get wet, but most would be able to run over a water obstacle. That little suprise would make forging a goofy button very worthwhile.
Additionally, in the period it might've been easier to forge out a plain triangle (or even a half circle) out of iron, fold it into a cone and forge weld the edges together, as opposed to raising a dome. Especially on the anvil's beak.
Period helmets were often spangenhelm construction , several smaller triangles dished by cold forging , sometimes on a stump, then riveted to iron straps to make a conical helmet.
In a thousand years people will look at the stacking hooks on 20th century military rifles and think they had something to do with hooking bayonets. I bet it had some function in how they packed their gear to march or camp use.
I read an account from an east roman general who hired germanic mercenaries, that the front row of men got on their knees and butted their shields boss-to-edge. The second row stood and set their shields on the button of the front row and the formation moved by rhythm of chanting (since the front row, crouching, could not see)
Maybe the projections were meant to throw your opponent's shield off kilter, so that the guy next to you in your own shield wall could exploit the gap and jab his sword in. As for their disappearing over time, I would guess that changing military tactics (cavalry v. infantry etc.) made them become less useful. Maybe they weren't ever that useful in the first place but merely fashionable, if a longer shield jabber-thingy was supposedly meant to indicate a more experienced warrior.
Nice video. I actually have a different view on what this design would be beneficial for. If a strike comes directly at the middle of it without that point and button, it would hit on the center of the metal which would be a wider surface, thus giving a blade more area to strike and possibly denting it, thus doing more damage. This design I believe would cause a strike that came in at a direct angle into it to deflect because the button is too small for the sword to bite into the metal, which may also cause the blade to deflect off, destroying edge alignment. This would also apply to axes or any bladed slashing weapon. It didn’t require being too robust because of how typical strikes would approach it. This deflection it would cause would likely create an exaggerated reaction from the attacking blade, hand shock and a good bit of bewilderment :) Just a thought though. No hard historical evidence to support this.
Yeah, its probably a style thing. Shields like those existed before and after this odd looking thingie and since Matt is saying they werent all that robust in construction I really doubt they had a practical use. Sure, you can hook something with this thing, or punch someone in the eye with in, but I think a person would dream up something more practical if his life depended on it.
Maybe the shield nipple was used as a way to link with other shields or swords while at rest or at camp to keep the weapons upright and off of wet ground? Maybe the same way muskets and other rifles can be linked in tripods for storage and quick access while attending camp duties?
My guess is that without it, a direct central hit (mb from an arrow?) could crush or penetrate the boss. So rather than use thicker metal for the whole boss they put a deflector on it, like a shield on a shield. Phased out when the steel got better / more plentiful.
Interesting hypothosis. Im very curious to see these tested. Maybe someone should suggest it to Thrand. Im more inclined to the shieldwall idea, or using it to manipulate an enemys shield. But based on the thinner metal of the period I like your arrow deflection idea. Need to find someone to test it out.
Fun fact: you can detach the thing from your shield and wear it as a mini nipple helmet, right on your bald head. Thought you knew, expected you to do that really.
Just a thought: Perhaps they were used to manipulate the opponent’s shield as Matt said, and they are not spikes because spikes would get jammed in a wooden shield.
My experiences with this are rather limited, yet we have found out that if your oponent stabs too far, this thing limits his capability to change the direction of his next stab. Also it helps quite a lot when shortening the distance, since it only alows him to go to the side or up, openning himself by bothways... For the reason they disapeared: The logistics of those shields is horrible. Also I wasn't convenced the advantage is big enough for the extra price and complications...
I think they locked neighbours shields together in the shield wall. It makes a shield wall almost impossible to break, and ensures your neighbours don't crush you. If your shield is on your left arm, the person on your right locks their shield onto yours. This protects you and makes you able to protect the person on your left. If the spear is in your right hand you are more able to attack the person who is attacking the person on your left because of the nice, uniform dip this makes between each shield: you can rest your spear on this dip.If the line behind you is locked on this way, they help to support you because their shield bosses are locked in place between you and your neighbour on each side. This stops you suffocating, etc & keeps you physically stable, whilst keeping those behind you close enough to strike the enemy. Plus you really don't want a spike behind you in a shield wall! Another thought: if there are opposing shield walls pressing against each other, this boss will now become helpful for manipulating opponents weapons. (I knew that Classics degree would come in useful one day...)
I have a few ideas. Might be something to do with the forging process of the day as someone mentioned below. Next idea maybe something to do with storage when you stack them on top of each other? I have two other ideas that are kinda crazy but whatever. One maybe it has something to do with shield walls or the tortoise shield formation. Essentially stops the shields from overlapping too much. Or helps support the formation. Two maybe a spear rest for the guy besides you? Granted that would be an odd angular wall. Maybe just the guys on the outsides! LOL. ;)
I see this as a means for defeating shield wall formations, especially those of the late romans. Of course as the shield wall develops to counter the roman marching shield wall, other cultures would be 'hard pressed' to find a way to peel the skin off the apple. That protrusion with the slightly enlarged head (think of a nail) would be able to work it's way between shields and then create a pressure related 'hooking' through mechanical force to pry the shield down or sideways to open gaps. The nature of the rounding or flattened nail head would also allow it to slide across shield faces rather then getting itself stuck in. Of course as late migration periods move onward and many opponents are starting to arrive as large cavalry forces, shield walls will fall out of favor post 650AD (CE) being replaced with the late migration phalanx style formations, which may be verily why the protruded point may have fallen from general favor.
Thought: northern European swords of the migration era tended to be rather heavy for their length, and great cleavers. Each strike would have to be decisive, and feinting would be less effective than with more nimble swords. Using the shield for control while using those swords would be more beneficial than with other swords. Armies were also smaller, and therefore the equipment could be more embellished for a similar price.
I think you pretty much nailed it. When people look at things like this I feel they get too caught up on "this is used for this and only this!" type of mentality. In reality I feel that things like this are used for a variety of purposes, it is an extra tool to use in battle and if you can find a way to use it to gain an advantage over your opponent YOU USE IT! Got an opportunity to hook a sword? DO IT! Got an opportunity to hook a spear? DO IT! Got an opportunity to hook a shield? DO IT! Got an opportunity to smash this fool in the face and laugh with your buddies about how you totally killed that idiot with a giant nipple? IT WOULD BE A SIN NOT TOO! Great video, hope the move is going well! Cheers!
How? It's a centrally held shield. In order for you to reach your neighbors's nipple with the edge of your shield, the edge of _his_ shield has to pass halfway through your wrist.
Whatever the actual historical reason this existed, I'm sure a blacksmith's apprentice at some point in history grabbed two of them and held them over his chest. Or maybe Monty Python did that...
I have no expertise in migration era tactics, but I do know that on many modern riot shields there are interlocking sections to make a tight shield wall. Is it possible these were used as a sort of hook/reference point for allies' shields so that a fighting formation could be more easily maintained?
I have noticed in sparring with shields that have a necked dome ( www.viking-shield.com/early-medieval-shield-boss-with-rivets/ ), you can sometimes get your opponent's shield rim into your boss' neck area and thus control him/his shield with the leverage. It more or less shuts down his advance and sideways movement, and makes him want to leap back to free his shield up before he is struck or his shield is levered open. In the fight, you are always trying to get around your opponent and generally move offline for superior geometry, and the "sticking" effect of the neck or extension can make this even stronger, even though such an event only lasts a second or two. I think that the top of that boss' extended bit, which would help to keep a shield rim in, indicates a similar use, which adds another tool to the shield bearer's kit. Not really shield binding as Warzecha does, just a very short period of contact as your body movement does the main job of shutting down your opponent and putting you in a position to strike. I think that Thrand has explored a similar concept.
How? It's a centrally held shield. In order for you to reach your neighbors's nipple with the edge of your shield, the edge of _his_ shield has to pass halfway through your wrist.
Would it work for forming a shield wall. Like the edge of your friends shield rests on the stork, that way you could get a specific shield overlap across a whole formation. I'd imagine it would be easier and require less training that way. It would be like a pace stick. A potential reason for falling out of use might be the adoption of smaller shields so the device wouldn't have a function. I am not an expert so I don't know how much data is available concerning shield size from AD 400 to say 800.
I think the button serves two purposes keeps a blade from skidding on the shield and hitting any exposed body part and keeping the shaft from getting stuck on anything you run into. Bonus, if you hit an unprotected opponent body part it’s gonna hurt button or not. As for disappearance? No clue...maybe metal or labor got more expensive and money was better spent on better swords body armor who knows maybe even a fashion statement. I’m out.
Hmmm... Not strong enough for use in combat by the sound of it, so... How about this? Armies in camp often stack weapons so that they could be easily and quickly taken when the SHTF right? But shields, particularly the round ones wouldn't be so easy to stack so that they could be rapidly equipped by mustering troops. So maybe the knob just helps with that somehow? Especially if you're on a raid, or campaigning in unfriendly territory and don't have access to fancy weapon and shield racks. Just a thought, but when I'm in a hurry to grab my shield, I want it to be instantly useable to protect me from arrows, I'll likely have my main weapon in the other hand, and I certainly don't want to have to put it down. The only other use I could think of was rather more gruesome: the attachment of trophies for the intimidation of your enemies. Finally, was there any information on whether this type of boss came from the flat, or curved shield types? Perhaps not important but it might help to problem solve down the line if there was some sort of correlation between the two? Cheers Matt, love the channel, hope the move goes well, and may you all be happy in your new home:-)
I think they're too flimsy for that. Remember this one's seriously overbuilt. I recall Paul Mortimer saying the one on the Sutton Hoo shield would snap right off if you tried to do that.
@@Robert399 it would be interesting if someone could either make an analog of a brand new historical one so its properties can be tested, or calculate those properties with the right scientific equations. I don't think that it could handle a direct blow or one redirected directly unto it either. My thought was that in situations where mobilty is restrained or when the force of the initial blow can otherwise be dampened, it could be used to hook and to some extent control weapons or limbs. For example, I could see someone using this to hinder an opponant's control over a longer weapon as they try to retract it to increase your chances of closing in, or to limit the motion of your opponent's dominant (generaly on your shield side) arm in very close quarters, perhaps hooking the quillons of a shorter sword or dagger just long enough to create a good opening. In any case, I have no expertise or practical experience whatsoever in the matter, so it's just my first impression.
How? It's a centrally held shield. In order for you to reach your neighbors's nipple with the edge of your shield, the edge of _his_ shield has to pass halfway through your wrist.
I think it's for the same reason as the raised/notched bosses: To assist in forming a shield wall, where the second row of fighters rests their shields on the bosses of the first row, and where the shields "lock" with each other on the boss in every direction (left-right, up-down). Even if that's not exactly the case, I would favour any explanation that's based on formation tactics/context over individual combat context (as catching a blade or a spear in a 1v1 duel would be).
I think you're right in that it looks like it's for shield manipulation, either hooking the edge or alternatively punching it. As for why it faded out harder to say, possibly it was found it could compromise you by getting stuck on things at bad moments, or possibly coincided with a change in grip style that made it less effective? Or a change in grip style evolved because of it to counter it and therefor make it obsolete kind of thing.
If your sheild is held sideways, you can still block or catch weapons with the portruding bit. Which might be very useful since they often "locked sheilds" and weapons and where pushing each others sheilds trying to "tilt them to one side". Then if your sheild gets turned sideways you can still catch a weapon with it.
"Trapping spears somehow" show this video to your girlfriend/wife and ask her if that gives her an idea about trapping spears🤣 Also, i couldn't help but think of it as a very tiny helmet for a very tiny warrior
If you look at the angling of Viking-era sword and shield techniques, it seems like it could be used to bind shield, spear and sword, can't tell if it is primarily for one of the three...actually, probably shields in an angled charge, but it probably got phased out as the era switched to larger kite-shaped body shields like the Norman shields...emphasis on heavy cavalry?
I think it's to create a leverage point when pressed against an opponents shield. You would be able to feel it and shift your weight while maintaining contact to move the force on your opponents shield which important when using centre grip shields.
I actually think the nipple is just a remnant of the way the boss was made: When you have a flat disc of metal hot, with pliers pull the middle for a cone shape, which you then would hammer inside the cone out to form the boss. The pronounced tip from the pliers is the hammered to a mushroom to hide the toolmarks and left as a decoration.
My guess would be that it came and went with the popularity of center grip shields as it matches the time frame of their greatest popularity and the proliferation of the type at the time period. Something about the extended lever that allows you to pivot your shield if it comes in contact with another and is advantageous in the style of fighting that was most common at the time, and faded as the style changed.
I think probably just decoration or tradition. I mean, lots of things don't serve a real functional purpose. I don't think it's for combat as much as perhaps decor. Especially since the originals had thinner stalks. I don't think it would be too practical for controlling a spear to be honest.
I have to agree. If it were used to try and control your opponents shield you would have your own shield would be in the way. It may have a purpose outside of combat. Such as help it hang on a rack.
In a shield wall would they help knit the wall together so you don’t get gaps and if locked in behind the button help prevent the wall being pulled open.
The Mushroom seems like it's made to swipe away enemy weapons while you are in blocking motion, instead of passive block you swipe away with the shield together with the enemy weapon and then attack an opening. - You can conclude that if you use the Mushroom-Tipped-Boss-Shield into a sparing, to see what really works.
Could it have been useful in catching axes, given the prevalence of axes in that period. I mean they were popular with Germanic invaders like the Vikings and the Saxons, and even with the warriors of the Frankish Kingdoms. And then when the ax fell out of mainstream use by the Middle Ages (replaced by swords/polearms/etc), this type of nipple boss likely also fell out of mainstream use, as they would be less effective against swords and polearms. I don't know if this is specifically the case, but this is my best educated guess... After all, it's easier for a shield boss like this to be useful in deflecting and catching, let's say a bearded ax or a franca, by the hooked back-edge of its blade than to do the same with a spear or sword which typically have smooth and straight edges.
It may have been used to attach the shield to some structure, f.ex. a wagon, boat or some temporary wall made of vertcal poles. Viking ships are often depicted with shields on boards, but such nipple would require a specific vertical groove in a mount for attaching the shield. I don't know whether such mounts were ever depicted in pictures of viking ships, and whether this was the purpose of the nipple: attachment to some structure, out of hand.
Wouldn't it stop someone bracing their shield against you in close combat? You could offset them with the protrusion being a pivot point against your opponents momentum.
In Celtic reenactment we use the domed shield boss (umbo) to control spears and lances and rush in. The round shield boss gives you just a little 'trapping' ability so I can see how the spike/nipple could enhance that ability. With a normal round boss you need to tilt the top of the shield slightly outwards for getting a better 'grip' on the spear/lance I have experienced. I think with the spike/nipple you can hold the shield more vertical. These are just my thoughts. Testing will be needed
My first thoughts are: Adding strength to the shield, creating a pivot point on my shield so I can maintain my deflection angle when my shield comes in contact with my opponent's shield.
Or maybe to deflect cuts and spear thrusts that would be comming at a strait angle to the shield surface (but hitting the top of the hemisphere). Concerning the thiner, weaker nature of original bosses, they potentially could be pierced. This would reqire some testing if such penetration would be possible. Otherwise this idea is trash. The pivot point proposition is actually way better.
@@tombombadil8142 I can see as it would add an extra layer of protection as well as reduce the amount of shock absorbed by the overall shield, making it last longer.
I thought of why it may have gone out of use, if it was introduced before the Viking age but disappears just after the Viking age begins, perhaps the extended "nipple" as it were was too much of an opportune implement to get hooked by the back end of an ax beard. I could use that to pull you off balance.
its a rack for hanging things on during a march, if your going to carry the shield might as well hnag your coat or bag from it aswell. or maybe its for training, attach extra weights on it during marching training to build muscles
Thanks for another interesting topic Matt! Depending on how large the actual shields were, could it not be used for manipulating your neighbour's shield in a shield-wall? Or if not manipulating, simply to be able to "communicate" with your neighbour's shield by applying pressure, or indeed, feeling what he does with his shield? - just a thought EDIT: and perhaps the softness/roundedness of the nipple is so that your shield cannot be manipulated by opposing shields. EDIT EDIT: It could even just act as a guide for where neighbouring shields need to be in a shield-wall?
what if it was more for utilitarian purpose? a way to wrap supplies to if its slung across the back, and the button acts like a belt clip and keeps pouches from falling off. also easier to hang on a storage rack.
If they carried the shield on their back while traveling, it could just be a handy peg to hang something on. That particular shape might be more practical for deflecting things away from the center.
Maybe those 'mushrooms' were less for manipulating opponents weapons or shields but more for helping to align and interlock shields in shield walls? However, this would not explain why it disappeared before shield walls fell out of favor and why it appears on bucklers. Regarding bucklers, I think it is reasonable to think that it is actually used to actively control the opponents weapon or buckler.
It feels like this is to attach something that did not survive for that long. Something wooden perhaps? (Don't know how heavy that would be). Or, as someone else already said, a flag or something similar. Perhaps it can be grabbed. Could there be any use in grabbing your shield by the front? No, that would be an advantage for the opponent. Maybe that's the reason it didn't last.
When a shield is used offensively, I suppose the button would focus the force of a blow or push more than just a rounded boss. Even with the button and not a spike it might do more damage to the body part struck.
I'm not at all suggesting that this is their historical use, but a friend of mine has a shield with a similar boss they use in my reenactment group, when we were eating once I drove it into the ground, the nubbin at the end gave it good balance and we used it as sort of shitty field dining table to have our food raised slightly off the muddy ground.
i have found these to be good for controlling shields, it adds an extra point of contact and lets you "grab" their shield shield and bind it up and move it out of the way. i used used it both in reenactment and HEMA and i believe it has more used as a shield and yes a spear control then trying to control a sword
I'm pretty sure the reason for them going away is the same as for flamberges - they give you an advantage, but it's not a big enough advantage to be worth the pain the neck of making, maintaining and reparing them.
My best guess is they could be stopping blades from glancing off my shield on downward strikes and kneecaping me. And they phased out when swords went from primary weapons to sidearms.
Certainly, a warrior with just a shield would have been nothing like a knight, but it's interesting to consider that anglo saxon ceorls were granted their status based on whether or not they owned a shield.
Could they be for slamming similar to the spiked shield but one who gives a hammer like blow without penetrating and maybe getting stuck? Multiple uses probably of course. Mayhap disappeared by falling our of fashion or just wasn't that useful with the changing battlefield armor and weapons?
I wondered that initially, something like the edge on one shield hits the stalk of the next and it locks in behind the button to some degree. The problem with this though is that first I don't think the sizing works out so it would actually line up like that, but more importantly the shield boss would be in the way so in order for the edge of one shield to ever touch the stalk you would have to deliberately create a gap to get over the large boss which is rather undesirable.
I'm a simple guy, I see niple, I click
I'm a simple guy. I see 69 likes on your comment and I refrain from adding mine.
I would use it to stack shields vertically in a wall formation. The spikes of the two shields below would form a ledge for the offset row above (like scale armour) the "button" should stop the top sheild sliding off.
This actually seems the most reasonable of what I"ve seen
Interlocking shields was my first thought too - at least for practical use. Theres always a chance that its mostly decorative.
I think it could be that, so you could rest, not needing to hold it up, good thinkng man.
I have often wondered what the nipples stalks of migration era bosses were for....
I have decided they are DEFINITELY there to confuse archeologists!
Lol
I remember in grade school I used to make strange symbols (didn't mean anything) on papers and stashed them in hidden places and people's bags. Good times
@@LoremasterRelomi I did a similar thing with silly rumors. Like "so & so is actually an alien 👽" or something stupid but harmless..
In college for a few years after Halloween parties me g some friends would dawn all black &fairy wings to do pointless pranks. We called ourselves the Chaos Fairies lol
One year we left plastic wrapped toast on the hoods of people's cars, another time we prank called people & would say in a deep rumbly voice "Hello...I hope you have a good day tomorrow!" Then hang up.
I always have enjoyed messing with people in ways that are non- harmful. I let them know if they don't catch on as the best part is seeing them laugh at it all too.
In a college class I played it straight as I explained my 'theory' about how Helen of Troy was actually ugly! I said the phrase "the face that launched 1000 ships" was misunderstood and folks assume it means she was so beautiful that the ships came to her rescue. But in reality it was a joke told by sailors who all saw her & wanted to run! Lol
@@asa-punkatsouthvinland7145 That's an amazing story.
@@Kobolds_in_a_trenchcoat thank you
I can't say for certain, but the safe money's on 'ritual purposes.'
It's a 'fertility symbol'
@@Hirosjimma Sigh, men and their shield bosses....
THE NIPPLE SHIELD
BOSS OF THE DARK AGE
sounds sick matt thx for the video
You're disgusted by a nipple shield?
@@JanetStarChild Are you joking or are you dense?
Probably a coat hanger when you travelling with your shield LOL
You could have a point 🤔walking in mail for long times is quite a hot 🙄
Yes, they didn't have stands and coat hangers while migrating.
I definitely like this format of "quick video recorded on your phone" especially if it means you'll be posting more videos.
Maybe a decorative mount? To continue with the nipple analogy, perhaps tassels. :)
I didn't really think of nipples when I saw that thing. Then again, it usually is colder in the UK...
I haven’t even watched the video yet, I’m just in awe of the title.
It's pretty spectacular. It's like the name of a Glam/Death Metal Band.
A Nipple Shield Boss? Sounds like something you'd fight in DarkSouls
With Code Veins being released recently, maybe the Nipple Shield Boss would be a good Waifu.
She's a topless skjaldmær dual-wielding shields like Orma & Reeve's.
I'm sure it disappeared after an enemy on some forgotten battlefield shouted: "Oh look, a boob wall!" and nobody would be caught dead with one since then.
I don't know. Men throughout history have brought masturbatory aids with them on campaign. Maybe they were all playing the skin flute to their giant wall of boobage.
This is Thrand, I call it a shield nail or boss nail. Matt I did a few videos on neck and nail use on bosees on my channel ThregnThrand. Excellent video many do not know about them nor consider there uses! I believe they were used to help trap blades and manipulate shields.
Hi, Matt. Thanks for all of the great videos. When you said "...in a Shield Wall,...." I immediately envisioned a series of shields, with bosses like that, when overlapped with the buttons of each securely locked onto the rim of its fellows to either side. This would make a fairly strong wall, if the men holding them could keep them together. However, the difficulty in trying to train men in maintaining such tactics, in full combat could have led to their later falling into relative Historical (and Archaeological) obscurity.
I tend to go down this route a lot (mostly because few people do), but maybe it's just decoration? Not everything necessarily needs to have a use. Considering they're not usually all that robust, and that they weren't used earlier and weren't used later, it would suggest some kind of change in stylistic taste, precisely because they might not have had an actual use.
Different subject entirely, but I was wondering whether you have any thoughts on why the pistol grip (as used in modern olympic foil and epee fencing) hadn't appeared earlier in thrusting weapons. It seems to me that it provides a much stronger grip than a straight "French" or "Italian" grip. Cheers.
Especially with a smallsword. Hmmm, you raise an interesting question.
I think they could be for interlocking the shields in the shield wall. Either bracing against the edge of your neighbour's shield or at least preventing one shield being pushed across the face of the next opening a gap.
Glad you've got you camera kit back.
How? It's a centrally held shield. In order for you to reach your neighbors's nipple with the edge of your shield, the edge of _his_ shield has to pass halfway through your wrist.
So glad you got your camera set up back!
If the historical examples are found on a individual basis, then I would look for some sort of supplemental armor that has a corresponding button hole. Maybe a woven matt that could be constructed when additional protection was needed. If they were issued to the entire formation, then I would look to the mechanics of the shield wall. The length of the button would probably be close to the edge with of four shields. If they whent to the trouble of forge weldind a button to improve the shield wall, then there would probably be four corresponding notchs on the edge of the shield to catch an lock in the other buttons. With the shield locked up like that you may even be able to make a impromptu bridge. Some would have to get wet, but most would be able to run over a water obstacle. That little suprise would make forging a goofy button very worthwhile.
Additionally, in the period it might've been easier to forge out a plain triangle (or even a half circle) out of iron, fold it into a cone and forge weld the edges together, as opposed to raising a dome. Especially on the anvil's beak.
Period helmets were often spangenhelm construction , several smaller triangles dished by cold forging , sometimes on a stump, then riveted to iron straps to make a conical helmet.
In a thousand years people will look at the stacking hooks on 20th century military rifles and think they had something to do with hooking bayonets. I bet it had some function in how they packed their gear to march or camp use.
I read an account from an east roman general who hired germanic mercenaries, that the front row of men got on their knees and butted their shields boss-to-edge. The second row stood and set their shields on the button of the front row and the formation moved by rhythm of chanting (since the front row, crouching, could not see)
Thoughts?
Maybe the projections were meant to throw your opponent's shield off kilter, so that the guy next to you in your own shield wall could exploit the gap and jab his sword in.
As for their disappearing over time, I would guess that changing military tactics (cavalry v. infantry etc.) made them become less useful. Maybe they weren't ever that useful in the first place but merely fashionable, if a longer shield jabber-thingy was supposedly meant to indicate a more experienced warrior.
*jab his spear in
Could it have been used as an attachment point for something? Maybe a piece of fabric to indicate something military in nature like rank or a company?
attachment point for a bigger shield.
Fuck yeah...
It does look alot like a button to put some fabrik on... But it would have been easy to just paint the shield
Ugh... Pommel attachment 😅
I apologise.
Nice video. I actually have a different view on what this design would be beneficial for.
If a strike comes directly at the middle of it without that point and button, it would hit on the center of the metal which would be a wider surface, thus giving a blade more area to strike and possibly denting it, thus doing more damage.
This design I believe would cause a strike that came in at a direct angle into it to deflect because the button is too small for the sword to bite into the metal, which may also cause the blade to deflect off, destroying edge alignment. This would also apply to axes or any bladed slashing weapon.
It didn’t require being too robust because of how typical strikes would approach it. This deflection it would cause would likely create an exaggerated reaction from the attacking blade, hand shock and a good bit of bewilderment :)
Just a thought though. No hard historical evidence to support this.
I look forward to seeing you practice using it on a shield vs. various weapons and shields.
"nubbin on the end of a stalk"
Just call it a bellend and be done with it, Matt!
I’m tempted to go with the kukri notch explanation: probably decorative. It would explain why it appears and disappears.
It's possible, but they seem very mechanical on most common examples. But it's definitely possible.
Yeah, its probably a style thing. Shields like those existed before and after this odd looking thingie and since Matt is saying they werent all that robust in construction I really doubt they had a practical use. Sure, you can hook something with this thing, or punch someone in the eye with in, but I think a person would dream up something more practical if his life depended on it.
Maybe the shield nipple was used as a way to link with other shields or swords while at rest or at camp to keep the weapons upright and off of wet ground? Maybe the same way muskets and other rifles can be linked in tripods for storage and quick access while attending camp duties?
The nipple flange on the end could have been used to keep something from falling off like a strap?
My guess is that without it, a direct central hit (mb from an arrow?) could crush or penetrate the boss. So rather than use thicker metal for the whole boss they put a deflector on it, like a shield on a shield. Phased out when the steel got better / more plentiful.
Interesting hypothosis. Im very curious to see these tested. Maybe someone should suggest it to Thrand. Im more inclined to the shieldwall idea, or using it to manipulate an enemys shield. But based on the thinner metal of the period I like your arrow deflection idea. Need to find someone to test it out.
Fun fact: you can detach the thing from your shield and wear it as a mini nipple helmet, right on your bald head. Thought you knew, expected you to do that really.
Just a thought: Perhaps they were used to manipulate the opponent’s shield as Matt said, and they are not spikes because spikes would get jammed in a wooden shield.
My experiences with this are rather limited, yet we have found out that if your oponent stabs too far, this thing limits his capability to change the direction of his next stab. Also it helps quite a lot when shortening the distance, since it only alows him to go to the side or up, openning himself by bothways...
For the reason they disapeared:
The logistics of those shields is horrible.
Also I wasn't convenced the advantage is big enough for the extra price and complications...
I think they locked neighbours shields together in the shield wall. It makes a shield wall almost impossible to break, and ensures your neighbours don't crush you. If your shield is on your left arm, the person on your right locks their shield onto yours. This protects you and makes you able to protect the person on your left. If the spear is in your right hand you are more able to attack the person who is attacking the person on your left because of the nice, uniform dip this makes between each shield: you can rest your spear on this dip.If the line behind you is locked on this way, they help to support you because their shield bosses are locked in place between you and your neighbour on each side. This stops you suffocating, etc & keeps you physically stable, whilst keeping those behind you close enough to strike the enemy. Plus you really don't want a spike behind you in a shield wall! Another thought: if there are opposing shield walls pressing against each other, this boss will now become helpful for manipulating opponents weapons. (I knew that Classics degree would come in useful one day...)
I have a few ideas. Might be something to do with the forging process of the day as someone mentioned below. Next idea maybe something to do with storage when you stack them on top of each other? I have two other ideas that are kinda crazy but whatever. One maybe it has something to do with shield walls or the tortoise shield formation. Essentially stops the shields from overlapping too much. Or helps support the formation. Two maybe a spear rest for the guy besides you? Granted that would be an odd angular wall. Maybe just the guys on the outsides! LOL. ;)
I see this as a means for defeating shield wall formations, especially those of the late romans. Of course as the shield wall develops to counter the roman marching shield wall, other cultures would be 'hard pressed' to find a way to peel the skin off the apple. That protrusion with the slightly enlarged head (think of a nail) would be able to work it's way between shields and then create a pressure related 'hooking' through mechanical force to pry the shield down or sideways to open gaps. The nature of the rounding or flattened nail head would also allow it to slide across shield faces rather then getting itself stuck in. Of course as late migration periods move onward and many opponents are starting to arrive as large cavalry forces, shield walls will fall out of favor post 650AD (CE) being replaced with the late migration phalanx style formations, which may be verily why the protruded point may have fallen from general favor.
A bucker like this would be cool
Thought: northern European swords of the migration era tended to be rather heavy for their length, and great cleavers. Each strike would have to be decisive, and feinting would be less effective than with more nimble swords. Using the shield for control while using those swords would be more beneficial than with other swords. Armies were also smaller, and therefore the equipment could be more embellished for a similar price.
I think you pretty much nailed it. When people look at things like this I feel they get too caught up on "this is used for this and only this!" type of mentality. In reality I feel that things like this are used for a variety of purposes, it is an extra tool to use in battle and if you can find a way to use it to gain an advantage over your opponent YOU USE IT!
Got an opportunity to hook a sword? DO IT!
Got an opportunity to hook a spear? DO IT!
Got an opportunity to hook a shield? DO IT!
Got an opportunity to smash this fool in the face and laugh with your buddies about how you totally killed that idiot with a giant nipple? IT WOULD BE A SIN NOT TOO!
Great video, hope the move is going well! Cheers!
I've always thought it was for interlocking the shields in a shield-wall
How? It's a centrally held shield. In order for you to reach your neighbors's nipple with the edge of your shield, the edge of _his_ shield has to pass halfway through your wrist.
It might not be pointed,but I still wouldn't want to get hit in the teeth or the eye with it.
Whatever the actual historical reason this existed, I'm sure a blacksmith's apprentice at some point in history grabbed two of them and held them over his chest. Or maybe Monty Python did that...
I have no expertise in migration era tactics, but I do know that on many modern riot shields there are interlocking sections to make a tight shield wall. Is it possible these were used as a sort of hook/reference point for allies' shields so that a fighting formation could be more easily maintained?
I have noticed in sparring with shields that have a necked dome ( www.viking-shield.com/early-medieval-shield-boss-with-rivets/ ), you can sometimes get your opponent's shield rim into your boss' neck area and thus control him/his shield with the leverage. It more or less shuts down his advance and sideways movement, and makes him want to leap back to free his shield up before he is struck or his shield is levered open. In the fight, you are always trying to get around your opponent and generally move offline for superior geometry, and the "sticking" effect of the neck or extension can make this even stronger, even though such an event only lasts a second or two. I think that the top of that boss' extended bit, which would help to keep a shield rim in, indicates a similar use, which adds another tool to the shield bearer's kit. Not really shield binding as Warzecha does, just a very short period of contact as your body movement does the main job of shutting down your opponent and putting you in a position to strike. I think that Thrand has explored a similar concept.
Obviously, they used to place their shields button down on the floor and then stand on the shield and balance to work on their core muscles.
I like how UA-cam subtitles constantly writes "Madison" instead of "Matt Easton".
Hey Madison 😉
For the longest time I thought it's Matt Eastern.
Maybe it locks your shield to your neighbors shield in a shieldwall?
How? It's a centrally held shield. In order for you to reach your neighbors's nipple with the edge of your shield, the edge of _his_ shield has to pass halfway through your wrist.
They're clearly for medieval half time show _"wardrobe malfunctionions"_ starting m'lady Janet Jackson and Sir Justin Of Timberlake. 😜 😜 😜
When you hang your shield on the wall, this button and stalk makes a convenient coat hanger, sword hanger , place for your hat? Maybe? It's a thought.
@sbcontt YT I'm afraid I don't understand your comment. Can you expand on that please?
Hey Mat, we uploaded at the same time ahah :D
ps: Watching now
Would be interested to see your thoughts on this, Metatron.
Would it work for forming a shield wall. Like the edge of your friends shield rests on the stork, that way you could get a specific shield overlap across a whole formation. I'd imagine it would be easier and require less training that way. It would be like a pace stick.
A potential reason for falling out of use might be the adoption of smaller shields so the device wouldn't have a function. I am not an expert so I don't know how much data is available concerning shield size from AD 400 to say 800.
I'd be very interested in hearing Roland Warzecha's views on this. Hasn't he talked a little bit about those kind of boss?
Indeed! Roland Warzecha you studied and practice a lot shield from that era, do you have a hint?
I think the button serves two purposes keeps a blade from skidding on the shield and hitting any exposed body part and keeping the shaft from getting stuck on anything you run into. Bonus, if you hit an unprotected opponent body part it’s gonna hurt button or not. As for disappearance? No clue...maybe metal or labor got more expensive and money was better spent on better swords body armor who knows maybe even a fashion statement. I’m out.
Do we have any broken ones in the archaeological record?
He is mostly unarmed get him now. Lmao
Hmmm... Not strong enough for use in combat by the sound of it, so... How about this? Armies in camp often stack weapons so that they could be easily and quickly taken when the SHTF right? But shields, particularly the round ones wouldn't be so easy to stack so that they could be rapidly equipped by mustering troops. So maybe the knob just helps with that somehow? Especially if you're on a raid, or campaigning in unfriendly territory and don't have access to fancy weapon and shield racks. Just a thought, but when I'm in a hurry to grab my shield, I want it to be instantly useable to protect me from arrows, I'll likely have my main weapon in the other hand, and I certainly don't want to have to put it down. The only other use I could think of was rather more gruesome: the attachment of trophies for the intimidation of your enemies. Finally, was there any information on whether this type of boss came from the flat, or curved shield types? Perhaps not important but it might help to problem solve down the line if there was some sort of correlation between the two? Cheers Matt, love the channel, hope the move goes well, and may you all be happy in your new home:-)
Looks like a tool for controlling your opponent's blade to me.
I think they're too flimsy for that. Remember this one's seriously overbuilt. I recall Paul Mortimer saying the one on the Sutton Hoo shield would snap right off if you tried to do that.
@@Robert399 it would be interesting if someone could either make an analog of a brand new historical one so its properties can be tested, or calculate those properties with the right scientific equations.
I don't think that it could handle a direct blow or one redirected directly unto it either. My thought was that in situations where mobilty is restrained or when the force of the initial blow can otherwise be dampened, it could be used to hook and to some extent control weapons or limbs.
For example, I could see someone using this to hinder an opponant's control over a longer weapon as they try to retract it to increase your chances of closing in, or to limit the motion of your opponent's dominant (generaly on your shield side) arm in very close quarters, perhaps hooking the quillons of a shorter sword or dagger just long enough to create a good opening.
In any case, I have no expertise or practical experience whatsoever in the matter, so it's just my first impression.
Sad wall is sad. Can't wait 'til you move into the new house and the shinies go back up!
No expertise, but my first thought would be to help hold a shield wall together.
How? It's a centrally held shield. In order for you to reach your neighbors's nipple with the edge of your shield, the edge of _his_ shield has to pass halfway through your wrist.
I think it's for the same reason as the raised/notched bosses: To assist in forming a shield wall, where the second row of fighters rests their shields on the bosses of the first row, and where the shields "lock" with each other on the boss in every direction (left-right, up-down).
Even if that's not exactly the case, I would favour any explanation that's based on formation tactics/context over individual combat context (as catching a blade or a spear in a 1v1 duel would be).
I think you're right in that it looks like it's for shield manipulation, either hooking the edge or alternatively punching it. As for why it faded out harder to say, possibly it was found it could compromise you by getting stuck on things at bad moments, or possibly coincided with a change in grip style that made it less effective? Or a change in grip style evolved because of it to counter it and therefor make it obsolete kind of thing.
Looks like a peg for digging in the dirt, for the shield to double as a seat.
If your sheild is held sideways, you can still block or catch weapons with the portruding bit. Which might be very useful since they often "locked sheilds" and weapons and where pushing each others sheilds trying to "tilt them to one side". Then if your sheild gets turned sideways you can still catch a weapon with it.
"Trapping spears somehow" show this video to your girlfriend/wife and ask her if that gives her an idea about trapping spears🤣
Also, i couldn't help but think of it as a very tiny helmet for a very tiny warrior
The great garden gnome uprising!
Like a Kindergardian?
@@JS-yt5le hahaha for example
Its so that the shield can double as a roulette wheel when they make camp for the night
If you look at the angling of Viking-era sword and shield techniques, it seems like it could be used to bind shield, spear and sword, can't tell if it is primarily for one of the three...actually, probably shields in an angled charge, but it probably got phased out as the era switched to larger kite-shaped body shields like the Norman shields...emphasis on heavy cavalry?
I think it's to create a leverage point when pressed against an opponents shield. You would be able to feel it and shift your weight while maintaining contact to move the force on your opponents shield which important when using centre grip shields.
I actually think the nipple is just a remnant of the way the boss was made: When you have a flat disc of metal hot, with pliers pull the middle for a cone shape, which you then would hammer inside the cone out to form the boss. The pronounced tip from the pliers is the hammered to a mushroom to hide the toolmarks and left as a decoration.
My guess would be that it came and went with the popularity of center grip shields as it matches the time frame of their greatest popularity and the proliferation of the type at the time period. Something about the extended lever that allows you to pivot your shield if it comes in contact with another and is advantageous in the style of fighting that was most common at the time, and faded as the style changed.
I think probably just decoration or tradition. I mean, lots of things don't serve a real functional purpose. I don't think it's for combat as much as perhaps decor. Especially since the originals had thinner stalks.
I don't think it would be too practical for controlling a spear to be honest.
I have to agree. If it were used to try and control your opponents shield you would have your own shield would be in the way. It may have a purpose outside of combat. Such as help it hang on a rack.
In a shield wall would they help knit the wall together so you don’t get gaps and if locked in behind the button help prevent the wall being pulled open.
The Mushroom seems like it's made to swipe away enemy weapons while you are in blocking motion, instead of passive block you swipe away with the shield together with the enemy weapon and then attack an opening.
- You can conclude that if you use the Mushroom-Tipped-Boss-Shield into a sparing, to see what really works.
Could it have been useful in catching axes, given the prevalence of axes in that period. I mean they were popular with Germanic invaders like the Vikings and the Saxons, and even with the warriors of the Frankish Kingdoms. And then when the ax fell out of mainstream use by the Middle Ages (replaced by swords/polearms/etc), this type of nipple boss likely also fell out of mainstream use, as they would be less effective against swords and polearms. I don't know if this is specifically the case, but this is my best educated guess... After all, it's easier for a shield boss like this to be useful in deflecting and catching, let's say a bearded ax or a franca, by the hooked back-edge of its blade than to do the same with a spear or sword which typically have smooth and straight edges.
It may have been used to attach the shield to some structure, f.ex. a wagon, boat or some temporary wall made of vertcal poles. Viking ships are often depicted with shields on boards, but such nipple would require a specific vertical groove in a mount for attaching the shield. I don't know whether such mounts were ever depicted in pictures of viking ships, and whether this was the purpose of the nipple: attachment to some structure, out of hand.
Wouldn't it stop someone bracing their shield against you in close combat?
You could offset them with the protrusion being a pivot point against your opponents momentum.
That is the only idea I've read here that makes some sense to me, I like it.
In Celtic reenactment we use the domed shield boss (umbo) to control spears and lances and rush in.
The round shield boss gives you just a little 'trapping' ability so I can see how the spike/nipple could enhance that ability.
With a normal round boss you need to tilt the top of the shield slightly outwards for getting a better 'grip' on the spear/lance I have experienced. I think with the spike/nipple you can hold the shield more vertical.
These are just my thoughts. Testing will be needed
My first thoughts are: Adding strength to the shield, creating a pivot point on my shield so I can maintain my deflection angle when my shield comes in contact with my opponent's shield.
Or maybe to deflect cuts and spear thrusts that would be comming at a strait angle to the shield surface (but hitting the top of the hemisphere). Concerning the thiner, weaker nature of original bosses, they potentially could be pierced. This would reqire some testing if such penetration would be possible. Otherwise this idea is trash. The pivot point proposition is actually way better.
@@tombombadil8142 I can see as it would add an extra layer of protection as well as reduce the amount of shock absorbed by the overall shield, making it last longer.
I thought of why it may have gone out of use, if it was introduced before the Viking age but disappears just after the Viking age begins, perhaps the extended "nipple" as it were was too much of an opportune implement to get hooked by the back end of an ax beard. I could use that to pull you off balance.
@@thehobbyguy7089 I'm pretty shure the use of axes was common even before that period, yet I'm not at all educated in this matter.
its a rack for hanging things on during a march, if your going to carry the shield might as well hnag your coat or bag from it aswell.
or maybe its for training, attach extra weights on it during marching training to build muscles
Thanks for another interesting topic Matt!
Depending on how large the actual shields were, could it not be used for manipulating your neighbour's shield in a shield-wall? Or if not manipulating, simply to be able to "communicate" with your neighbour's shield by applying pressure, or indeed, feeling what he does with his shield? - just a thought
EDIT: and perhaps the softness/roundedness of the nipple is so that your shield cannot be manipulated by opposing shields.
EDIT EDIT: It could even just act as a guide for where neighbouring shields need to be in a shield-wall?
what if it was more for utilitarian purpose? a way to wrap supplies to if its slung across the back, and the button acts like a belt clip and keeps pouches from falling off. also easier to hang on a storage rack.
If they carried the shield on their back while traveling, it could just be a handy peg to hang something on. That particular shape might be more practical for deflecting things away from the center.
Nipple Shield Boss = Band name.
Maybe those 'mushrooms' were less for manipulating opponents weapons or shields but more for helping to align and interlock shields in shield walls? However, this would not explain why it disappeared before shield walls fell out of favor and why it appears on bucklers. Regarding bucklers, I think it is reasonable to think that it is actually used to actively control the opponents weapon or buckler.
It feels like this is to attach something that did not survive for that long. Something wooden perhaps? (Don't know how heavy that would be). Or, as someone else already said, a flag or something similar.
Perhaps it can be grabbed. Could there be any use in grabbing your shield by the front? No, that would be an advantage for the opponent. Maybe that's the reason it didn't last.
When a shield is used offensively, I suppose the button would focus the force of a blow or push more than just a rounded boss. Even with the button and not a spike it might do more damage to the body part struck.
I'm not at all suggesting that this is their historical use, but a friend of mine has a shield with a similar boss they use in my reenactment group, when we were eating once I drove it into the ground, the nubbin at the end gave it good balance and we used it as sort of shitty field dining table to have our food raised slightly off the muddy ground.
The sound quality on your phone is better than on some of your earlier videos! Not bad at all.
0:14 'i can stick it in my back'
Well, whatever floats the boat or how do they say ;P
i have found these to be good for controlling shields, it adds an extra point of contact and lets you "grab" their shield shield and bind it up and move it out of the way. i used used it both in reenactment and HEMA and i believe it has more used as a shield and yes a spear control then trying to control a sword
The swords, the beautiful swords. 😭 jokes aside, best of luck and success on your move.
The new owners of the house will wonder why all the walls have holes in them.
I'm pretty sure the reason for them going away is the same as for flamberges - they give you an advantage, but it's not a big enough advantage to be worth the pain the neck of making, maintaining and reparing them.
My best guess is they could be stopping blades from glancing off my shield on downward strikes and kneecaping me. And they phased out when swords went from primary weapons to sidearms.
Looks like it could hold/controll the blade after it glanced of the shield boss
Or could be used as a lever to push yours away with their shield edge....
I think it might be used to pull an opponent's shield down.
Certainly, a warrior with just a shield would have been nothing like a knight, but it's interesting to consider that anglo saxon ceorls were granted their status based on whether or not they owned a shield.
Did you see the recent news about the 2,300 year old wooden bark shield found in Leicestershire?
Could they be for slamming similar to the spiked shield but one who gives a hammer like blow without penetrating and maybe getting stuck? Multiple uses probably of course. Mayhap disappeared by falling our of fashion or just wasn't that useful with the changing battlefield armor and weapons?
"Clearly, these nipples have some "ritual" significance." - An archaeologist, probably.
Could it have some purpose in strengthening a shieldwall?
I wondered that initially, something like the edge on one shield hits the stalk of the next and it locks in behind the button to some degree. The problem with this though is that first I don't think the sizing works out so it would actually line up like that, but more importantly the shield boss would be in the way so in order for the edge of one shield to ever touch the stalk you would have to deliberately create a gap to get over the large boss which is rather undesirable.
The concentration of force in a clash on a projecting nipple, Ouch.