The Gdańsk Decorated Armour Database (DAD) showcases decorated armour from the ancient Mediterranean. Launched in 2024 as part of a research project funded by the National Science Centre in Poland (SONATA 16: 2020/39/D/HS3/02179), the initial aim of the database is to collect the evidence of decorated hoplite shield-bands produced in ancient Greece between 650 and 450 BC.
The database, hosted and ran by the Faculty of History at the University of Gdańsk (https://en.historia.ug.edu.pl), is free to use and features images and drawings of the artefacts accompanied by archaeological and art-historical data. The search engine provides the option to organise and locate the records by type, date, provenance and decoration description.
As the Gdańsk DAD database continues to expand and grow, it is hoped that other types of decorated armour from across the ancient Mediterranean will be added in the future, as well as further educational tools and materials for use by schools and universities.
For help with using the database, opportunities for collaboration or any other questions, please get in touch with us (CONTACT US).
Hover over the image to see the details.
About
This database showcases Peloponnesian shield-bands from the mid-seventh to early-fifth centuries BC, emphasizing their role in Greek military technology. Produced mainly in Argos, these bronze strips reinforced the hoplite shield’s grip and were decorated with reliefs depicting mythical or everyday warrior scenes. Found mainly in the Temple of Zeus at Olympia, their imagery offers insights into the war ethics and personal ideals of ancient Greek warriors
Database
Explore the fusion of art and warfare in ancient Greece through our unique collection of decorated hoplite shield-bands. Uncover the stories these bronze strips tell, from heroic myths to the personal valor of warriors, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Peloponnesian martial culture.
People
Lead Researcher
Dr Cezary Kucewicz
Collaborators
Prof. dr hab. Nicholas Sekunda
Dr Caroline Musgrove
Dr Sara Rawlinson
Steve K. Simons
Contact US
If you would like to talk to us about the database,
opportunities for collaboration, copyright,
school visits or any other issues, please direct your emails
to dad.gdansk@ug.edu.pl