Parma (shield)

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A parma was a type of oval shield used by Roman army, especially during the later period of Imperial history. It was used mainly by auxiliary infantry and cavalry, the legionaries preferring the heavier but more protective scutum, during earlier periods. It is a yard across and has iron in its frame making it a very effective piece of armor. In the Pyrrhic dance it was raised above the head and struck with a sword so as to emit a loud ringing noise.

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