A 15th century decorative shield painted with a courtly love scene. The shield shows a knight kneeli
A 15th century decorative shield painted with a courtly love scene. The shield shows a knight kneeling to a courtly lady with death about to grab him from behind. The scroll above his head reads “You or Death.” The scene is representative of a common courtly love theme, a man completely surrendering himself to his lady - the knight is declaring his love to his lady and willing to risk death to win her love. This shield would not have been used in combat but was meant for display purposes such as a parade. It is too narrow to provide full protection and is decorated too ornately for practical use. -- source link
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