Geometric Squares

One type of male figure on Attic Late Geometric vases has a rectangular rather than triangular torso. the general interpretation of this shape as a square shield is not valid, and it is already recognised that we have some examples which represent a bell‐corslet and a chiton. the warriors on the chariots in the main frieze of an amphora by the Anavysos painter in the British Museum appear to be wearing non‐metallic corslets. A review of extant material suggests we should be cautious in interpreting square‐bodies since artists availed themselves of the convention for a number of purposes. the extent of the use of non‐metallic corslets in the eighth and seventh centuries cannot be judged from this evidence, but its very use is a significant factor in the debate over the introduction of hoplite armour and tactics in Greek society.