Hoplite Shield Designs

[Gaius Julius Quartus]

Good morning,

I'd like to pose three more questions for someone out there.
The very large and frightening bee is now almost complete on my aspis.
I'm happy with the way it's coming along, and will post a photo when it's all done.

My questions have to do with details in design:
(1) In the Ephesian coins I am looking at, there are a few examples of small spirals. On the coins, they are located on either side of the bee. I have seen these spirals in other places also. Any idea what they are, or what they signify?

(2) If I want to copy a short quotation from Xenophon, and paint it onto the back of the shield, is that way too unusual and non-historical? (And if I can, are there differences in Greek script - or can I use the same as in the Loeb Classics series?)

(3) The large apron that hangs from the bottom of the apis - has anyone made one? any design or fabrication suggestions? how is it attached?

Thanks

John