The Roman Scutum was largely deployed by the Legionary and (In my opinion) the reason that the empire thrived so much via the military. Unparalleled by other shields or weapons of its time, the Scutum was much more than just a large slab of wood and bronze. It was a moving wall, fortified by dozens of impenetrable soldiers. It was a bludgeon, with the edge effective for catching enemies off-guard and as a last resort. It was an imposing fortress, with barbarians hacking at the scutum with no effect, only to be run through by the Legionary.
Please enjoy the Front, Side, and Back views of the Scutum Shield.
(Part of an unfinished pack, of course)