Highland Targe
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The targe was the highlanders' main defense in battle from the time of
15th century until the Battle of Culloden, by which time the increasing
use of cannon in warfare resulted in them becoming less effective in protecting
the bearer. The targe was approximately 50cm in diameter and was originally
constructed by joining together, with wooden pegs, two circular wooden
layers set at right angles to each other and covered, on the front, with
heavy cowhide. This was usually embossed (carved) with intricate designs,
often with celtic patterns, and pinned to
the wooden base with hundreds of domed brass nails. The central bos frequently
had a provision for screwing in a metal spike of 30cm in length, thus
changing the nature of the shield from defensive to offensive.
The reverse was covered with deerskin and had some form of arm and hand
straps.
Our targes are covered with heavy weight cowhide and the designs are
all tooled by hand. The backs are covered with calfskin and have a sheath
for the steel spike which may be screwed into the central bos for display
purposes.
Price: $895.00
Please note: These targes are designed for display purposes
only and are not suitable for use
in reenactment demonstrations.
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