Shields of the Athenian Marines?

[hoplite14gr]

Our Association is currently studying "fighting on board" and I wrote an article about the fighting on the "decks of death" (hope to publish in English too)

Lets start with the facts.

A hoplite duel took place between Sophanes and Eyrhvates on Aegina in early 5th century BC.(Herodotus 9.75) So duels were possible

Weapons-master Emmanuele Argento and many of his students tried elaborete fencing moves while carrying a 15 pound hoplite shield. So yes the shield could be used in single combat.

You cannot outmanouvre an opponent who carries a hoplite shield on a trireme half-deck by using the "lion step" fencing move. You will either end up in the water or in between the oarsmen lines. If you still try and he pushes hard and makes contact you are on the planks and definitely don't want that!

Usually the Marine complement was led by the immediete family of the trieratch (aristocratic filthy rich guys who could afford good armor and sword training)

Plus - Most scholars are not shipbuilders don't have sailing experience.
The "Lenorman plaque" has b not been through fashmatoscopy. The colours might show what the sculptor ommited - like rails??!!!