Shield of Achilles
#AntiqueRoyal"Kathryn Jones, Senior Curator of Decorative Arts, explains the figures depicted on this dazzling object.
This dazzling object, nearly a metre in diameter, represents the shield of Achilles, the great hero
of mythology. The shield was vividly described in the epic poem, The Iliad. In the centre,
the sun god Apollo bursts forth in his chariot, driving across the starry heavens. Around the
edge we see the waves of the mighty ocean. Between is the world of men, involved in human activity,
marriage and dancing, farming, harvest and war. The shield was created in silver gilt,
silver covered in a thin layer of gold, and was first shown at the coronation banquet of
George IV, where it would have been displayed behind the king as a symbol of heroism,
strength and magnificence.