Live series · 5 sessions
Sidesword & Rotella (Sidesword Scholar)
Added August 2021
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The large arm-strap round shield, known as the rotella, was popular as a secondary for the sidesword throughout continental Europe. Made of leather, steel, and wood, this shield ranged in diameter between 20" and 30". It was typically strapped to the offside arm with two leather straps one around the forearm the other gripped in the hand.
In this series students will explore the use of the rotella as compliment to the sidesword. Topics will include:
- Holding and projecting the shield.
- Shield positions including inside and outside closing.
- Controlling using the shield's leading edge.
- Cutting around the shield while maintaining its silouhette.
- Sidesword & Rotella within the Bolognese Tradition.
Students should have a foundation in sidesword alone or sword and buckler. A rotella or other type of armstrap shield will be ideal for practice, however a buckler can function to create the leading edge of the shield. A good imagination can fill in if needed.