Rare Roman Iron Shield Boss

Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 4th century CE. A wonderful cast-iron shield boss of a wide hemispherical form with a slightly flared rim. The recessed design enabled a soldier to easily fashion the boss over a protruding central bulb for increased durability on the shield's frontmost section. Traditional Roman shield bosses were constructed with square or rectangular forms, so a circular example is quite rare. Great patina envelops the entire composition in hues of brown and pale orange. Size: 4.375" W x 3.1" H (11.1 cm x 7.9 cm).

Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA, acquired between 2011 and 2013; ex-Ancient Resource, Los Angeles, California, USA

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#149698
Condition Report: Minor deformation to overall form, with light chipping to rim and body, and thick patina throughout. Light earthen deposits throughout.