A medieval shield was a crucial piece of defensive equipment used by knights and soldiers during the Middle Ages, designed to protect the bearer from swords, arrows, and other weapons in battle. Made from wood, leather, and sometimes reinforced with metal, these shields came in various shapes such as the kite, heater, and round styles, each suited to different combat needs. Beyond their protective function, shields often bore heraldic symbols and colors, serving as a form of identification on the battlefield and a symbol of pride and lineage