Archaeological Iron Shield Boss

A conical archaeological iron shield boss placed pointing upwards. The soil has been removed revealing the surface of the shield boss covered in corrosion.

Identification

  • Object Type: Archaeological iron shield boss
  • Date: Early Medieval / Circa AD 401 – 500
  • Origin: Cammeringham , Archaeological Area, Linconshire
  • Owner: Portable Antiquities Scheme
  • Maker: Unknown
  • Measurements: (Before treatment)
    • Length: 15.5 cm
    • Width: 14 cm
    • Height: 13.3 cm
  • Materials: Iron and Mineralised Organic Matter

Summary

The archaeological shield boss is a circular, domed metal piece that was typically attached to the centre of a shield. It served as a protective reinforcement and a focal point for the shield’s design and were commonly used by various ancient cultures throughout history, including the Greeks, Romans, Vikings, and medieval Europeans. This artifact provides valuable insights into the military tactics, craftsmanship, and cultural practices of the societies that used them. Above you can see three stages of the conservation treatments before undergoing an alkaline desalination—a crucial step in its restoration journey. 

Behind the Scenes

Three stages of treating an iron archaeological shield before alkaline desalination. First, the surface shield boss is obscured, and it is partially filled with yellow/brown soil. Second, the soil has been removed revealing the surface of the shield boss covered in orange corrosion. Finally, the corrosion has been removed, revealing a dark brown/black surface of iron.
In this captivating snapshot, we witness part of the meticulous conservation processes of an iron shield boss. 
an alkaline solution bath. A glass beaker contains the shield boss and a blue conductivity meter, to measure the conductivity of the solution.

The image captures the alkaline solution bath, delicately removing harmful salts and impurities accumulated over time. This treatment not only preserves the structural integrity of the shield boss but also unveils its true beauty, allowing its original craftsmanship to shine through. 

Stay tuned as we follow the progress of this fascinating conservation technique, witnessing the transformation of this ancient artifact into a restored piece ready to be cherished for generations to come. 

The conservator who treated this object is Giorgia, click on the profile to learn more.

Note: All images were taken by the conservator unless stated otherwise.

Giorgia a white woman in early thirties person with long dark hair smiling at the camera, wearing a black shirt. The photo is in black and white.

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