Shield of Jan Ptáček of Pirkstein

Late 14th – Early 15th Century

The shield dimensions are in accordance with historical fencing tournament rules.

The shield face is curved. Made of plywood, with a thickness of 8 mm (two layers of 4 mm glued together).

Edge trim available in either leather or steel (optional).

The shield face is covered with high-strength fabric.

Hand-painted with artistic detailing.

The inner side features a wood panel imitation and is decorated with a wood stain finish.

Leather shoulder strap and felt padding for comfort.

Width: 62 cm, Length: 75 cm.

Historical Context:

Jan Ptáček, a character from the 2018 video game Kingdom Come: Deliverance, is based on a real historical figure.

Jan was from the noble Ptáček family of Lipa, a branch of the feudal clan of Ronovici. His father, Jan Ežek Ptáček, was a distant relative of Pan Hanuš of Lipa.

Jan was still a minor when his father passed away in the late 14th century, and as a result, Henry III of Lipa became his guardian. Hanuš of Lipa, Henry’s son, took over Jan’s guardianship and managed his estates after Henry’s death. It wasn’t until 1412 that Hanuš was instructed to leave, and Jan began managing his own lands.

Jan opposed the Hussites during the Hussite Wars. It is known that he fought in the Battle of Živohost under the command of Petr of Šternberk in 1419. It is assumed that Jan died that same year, and his son, Ginče Ptáček of Pirkstein, succeeded him in 1420.