Our examples of shields show very few varieties, nearly all seem to
follow the long kite shape or "Norman pear" Nos. 3 and 4. The great
seals of William I., William Rufus, and Henry I. all show this shield,
also that of Ilbert de Laci [_Archæological Journal_, vol. iv, p.
249], while the Bayeux tapestry, worked at the end of this century,
represents them exactly. Seeing, as we do in the seals of this date,
which mostly represented mounted horsemen, the inside only, it may be
noticed that all seem to be strengthened round their edges. In those of
William I. and Ilbert de Laci a metal rim is shown; in that of William
Rufus two of such strips, while in that of Henry I. rivets appear to
fasten a similar rim on the other side. In the Bayeux tapestry some
round shields with pointed bosses appear, and one of a square shape
rounded at the corners.
[Illustration]
In seals the lettering of the inscriptions is in plain Roman capitals,
while longobardic letters for G E A and D appear sometimes, but in
several seals preserved from this early date the inscriptions have
unfortunately decayed away.
[Illustration: Gilbert de Gant, ob. 1156.]