03-29-2012, 07:55 PM
I mentioned the stilicho image as an example where the sword appears suspended from tbe belt, and not across the shoulder. Having the sword suspended from the belt, would likley require the need for a shoulder cross strap to keep the belt from being pulled down. Further more why would the soldiers be wearing balderics without the swords? It seems more likely that they are cross straps as part of the belt.