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Italian

Buckler (Targa)

1550/75
Wood, leather, and iron
26.7 × 24.1 cm (10.5 × 9.5 in)

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● On view now — Gallery 239

Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · verified July 2026

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FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

Fencing masters trained students in the art of using the small hand shields called bucklers since the early Middle Ages. This Italian type called a targa came into use around the 16th century. Its wavy profile was designed to capture and divert thrusts and cuts.

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