A Pavise is a large convex shield of European origin used to protect the entire body.
The pavise was primarly used by archers and crossbowmen in the medieval period particularly during sieges. It was carried by a pavisier who was usually an archer. The pavise was held in place by the pavisier or sometimes deployed in the ground with a spike attached to the bottom. While reloading their weapons, crossbowmen would find shelter from incoming missile attacks behind them. The pavise was also made in a smaller version for hand to hand combat and for wearing on the back of men-at-arms. It is characterized by its prominent central ridge. Pavises were often painted with the towns coat of arms where it was made or sometimes stored in the town arsenal for when the town came under attack. Religious icons such as St. Barbara and St. George feature on the front of pavises. Most were covered in linen or leather before painting and painted with oil and egg-based paints. Few exist today but many were present in period.