16th Century Irish O’Donovan Targe
In stock
$229.99
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Overview
16th Century Irish O'Donovan Targe
This beautiful and bold Irish Targe is a fine centerpoint for a Gaelic arms collection and is based on an original belonging to the last chieftain of the O'Donovan family - it now sits above the fireplace in Lissard Hall in Ireland. Crafted from solid wood it is overlaid with thick leather embossed in a detailed and handcrafted patterns. The shield is fitted with a central brass boss and reinforced with numerous brass studs, creating a sturdy defensive surface whilst reflecting traditional Highland artistry. Its reverse is backed in suede leather and completed with a leather arm brace and a comfortable and secure leather handhold.
Specifications
Every measurement that matters
- Brand
- Deepeeka
- Culture
- Irish
- Thickness
- 3/5"
- Country of Origin
- India
- Dimensions
- 18" x 18"
Reviews
What collectors are saying
Q&A
Questions from the community
Q What is this targe made of? Common Question
The shield is built from a solid wood core overlaid with thick leather worked in a detailed embossed pattern. The face is reinforced with a central brass boss and numerous brass studs, while the reverse is lined in suede leather for a comfortable grip against the arm.
Q What historical piece is this based on? Common Question
This design is based on an original Irish targe that belonged to the last chieftain of the O'Donovan family, still displayed above the fireplace at Lissard Hall in Ireland. It reflects the Gaelic and Highland tradition of studded, embossed leather shields.
Q How do you hold and carry this shield? Common Question
The reverse is fitted with a leather arm brace and a separate leather handhold, so the forearm is secured through the wider cuff strap while the hand grips the narrower handle below it. Both fittings are riveted in place with brass-toned studs for a secure mount.
Q How big is this targe? Common Question
The shield measures 18" x 18", a size consistent with traditional Scottish and Irish hand targes meant to be carried on the forearm in one hand.
Q What does the decoration on the face look like? Common Question
The face is tooled with an eight-pointed star pattern radiating from the central brass boss, with rows of brass studs following the design lines and running around the outer rim. Additional single studs fill the triangular segments between the star points.
Q What does the back of the shield look like? Common Question
The interior is lined in suede leather with a rolled leather edge trim around the perimeter. Two leather fittings are riveted on with brass-toned studs: a wider cuff-style arm brace and a curved hand grip, both finished with visible stitching at the mounting points.
Q Is this targe meant for display or for sparring and contact use? Common Question
This piece is built as a collector's reproduction of a historical Irish targe, with a wood core, embossed leather face, and brass fittings suited to display or reenactment.
Q How should I care for the leather and brass on this shield? Common Question
Keep the embossed leather face and suede backing lightly conditioned to prevent the material from drying out or cracking, and store the shield away from damp conditions. Wipe the brass boss and studs occasionally to keep them free of tarnish and moisture buildup.
The Maker
Deepeeka
Deepeeka creates an astonishing variety of replica weapons, armor, and re-enactment accessories that range from Classical Antiquity to the 20th Century. Deepeeka has been crafting replicas since the 1980s and their products are essential gear for many re-enactment groups. Many swords, daggers and other weapons made by Deepeeka are durably crafted and budget-friendly offerings. The steel is good and well-tempered and their leathercraft and woodworking are of excellent quality. Deepeeka’s products are handcrafted and (in the case of blades, hand-hammered) are a good deal for those who want a quality item at a good price.
Kult of Athena is the US distributor for Deepeeka products and we offer the largest in-stock selection you will find and we will beat any price you can find. If you are searching for a particular item or find a Deepeeka item listed elsewhere that is not seen on our site let us know and if it is available we can source it for you at a better price than seen elsewhere.
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