Iranian archer of the Persian Wars On the battlefield, the archers were formed up in the centre of the army, many ranks deep, protected by a barricade of shields and spears along their front, such that any enemy formation approaching would face a relentless rain of tens of thousands of high-velocity arrows. At a glance… [Continue Reading]

Athenian Hoplite of the Persian Wars In pitched battle, the army formed a single phalanx of 10,000 men, a kilometre wide, eight ranks deep, protected by a wall of overlapping shields with a hedge of spear-blades projecting above. At a Glance Appearance Shield design: either individually chosen or representing clan, neighbourhood, or tribe Clothing and… [Continue Reading]

First century AD Roman legionary. At a glance Appearance Uniform and Imperial Clothing and Jewellery Military tunic worn as standard Leather belt, baldric, and apron straps often with personalised metallic decorations Scabbard, often with personalised decoration Hobnailed sandals Weaponry Throwing spear with pyramidal head and long metal shank (pilum) Short, stabbing sword (gladius) Dagger (pugio)… [Continue Reading]

First century AD British Celtic warrior At a glance Appearance Hair sometimes lime-washed and spiked-up Face sometimes painted with blue protective tattoos Clothing and Jewellery Cloak, tunic and trousers, often of tartan cloth Neck-ring (torc) made of gold, silver, electrum or bronze Leather belt, often with decorated buckle and plates Scabbard, often decorated, especially at the… [Continue Reading]