“Pavise #1” 2010.
27” x 13”
Oil on panel
Private collection
Childs Gallery
169 Newbury Street
Boston, MA 02116-2895
(617) 266-1108
A pavise is an oblong medieval
shield four to five feet high with a central gutter or groove to hold an iron stake. A pavise bearer would hold the shield or stake it into
the ground to protect the crossbowman from the arrows
of the enemy while he reloaded. It is thought to have originated and been named after the northern Italian town of Pavia. Made of wood covered in canvas, gessoed and painted with oil or egg tempera, they were essentially a painting that went to war. The images often religious, with an admixture of heraldry and decoration were executed by the guild of painters and shield makers. Their skill being highly valued was taken in lieu of taxes or military service.