The Boiotian Shield

[Ghostmojo]

Being a newcomer to this site I'm not sure if you have discussed this issue or not?

The conventional wisdom (at least that which I've encountered thus far) amongst ancient wargamers and military speculators - is that the Boiotian shield was an anachronism by the time of the Persian Wars, despite it still being heavily featured on pottery etc.

I understand that many believe it was merely symbolic in its representation - a civic logo of sorts.

However, I wonder if it was still being used by Thebans and other members of the Boiotian League at all during the 5th Century?

There are two types as far as I can determine (as shown on pottery)...

(a) an elliptical shield with the double cutaway

and

(b) a circular (apsis?) shield which also has this double cutaway usually with an extended rim.

I would be interested to know any forum members' views on this.