Wow! And a similar enough aesthetic sense to the design that any of them can be carried by our warrior. :) The scutum or pavisse (rectangular shield) should indeed be slightly more curved. They needed to stand securely upright both to form a shield wall (in classical times) and as protection for crossbowmen (in medieval/renaissance times). Furthermore, by being curved, they deflected any blows. Many shields have a boss (hollowed out place for the hand). If not, they have a strap running full width to make carrying them possible. Scutum image: http://www.romans-in-britain.org.uk/mil_roman_soldier_shield.htm Pavisse image: http://www.theancients.ca/images/balestriere-davantidx.jpg Meanwhile, I'm going to nab that trident. With the twisted tines, it would be formidable, yet still elegant. Carolly