plutei

Plutei refers to a type of ancient Roman protective screen or barrier, often constructed from wood, metal, or even leather. These were primarily used in military contexts, particularly by Roman legions during sieges and assaults. Plutei served as mobile fortifications, offering soldiers protection from enemy projectiles like arrows and stones while they advanced or maintained a position.

The design of a pluteus could vary, but commonly featured a wooden frame filled with interwoven branches, reeds, or hides, sometimes reinforced with metal strips. They were often portable, designed to be carried by soldiers or mounted on small wheeled carts. In siege warfare, plutei were instrumental in creating a protected corridor or a defensive line, allowing attackers to approach enemy fortifications with reduced risk. They could also be used defensively to strengthen existing ramparts or create temporary barricades. The effectiveness of plutei lay in their ability to absorb or deflect incoming missile fire, thereby safeguarding the soldiers behind them and enabling them to carry out their duties more effectively. While their use is most prominently associated with Roman military practices, similar defensive screens were employed by other ancient armies as well.