Pavise: David and Goliath

Description

On display - room 18

15th century

Late Middle Ages

This type of large shield from the late 15th century was used, for example, during the Hussite wars in Bohemia.

In this context, the scene of the fight between David and Goliath comes across as an image of propaganda representing the victory of the weakest over the more powerful opponent.

These pavises were the only ones capable of withstanding crossbow and were therefore used to protect formations of infantrymen, pikemen or crossbowmen. However, the widespread use of gunpowder eventually rendered them outmoded and led to them no longer being seen during the 16th century.
 

From one artwork to another

Tenture de la Vie Seigneuriale, La Promenade, Cl. 2178 © GrandPalaisRmn / Franck Raux

La Vie Seigneuriale

Début du XVIe siècle

Pilgrimage badge, Notre-Dame, Cl. 4697 © GrandPalaisRmn / Michel Urtado

Pilgrimage badges

13th century - 14th century - 15th century