Numidian Roman allies.

Jul 7, 2018 23:09:06 GMT Haardrada said:

Anyone have any idea which Roman Legions were allied to the Numidians and what shield designs or colour they may have had please?

Haardrada,

This is an interesting question.
The DBM book places Rome’s alliance during the reign of Juba II (3-6AD) and the only legion to be stationed in North Africa was the III Augustus.

Its camp moved during the early years, either suppress rebellions or undertake construction projects, before taking permanent residence at Lambaesis ( Livius.org).

   
A definitive shield pattern for the III Augustus remains a mystery, but most likely would have two sets of eagle’s wings and thunderbolts.

I have seen modern depictions of patterns painted in yellow and/or white.

The name (LEG * III) might also appear on the front of the shield.

Jul 8, 2018 8:59:20 GMT Haardrada said:

Thanks for your reply Robert it is an eye opener.I also was wondering about the "ally" status to the Marian Roman list...as at the Battle of Bagridas 46 BC it was a larger Numidian army that did the majority of the fighting while the Romans defended their camp.lol

The Late Republican period is a slightly different kettle of fish.

I am not convinced that every legion raised during the civil war would have carried a unique shield pattern.

The vexillum for each maniple is a simpler means to identify the legion.

That said, some legion might have symbols painted such as crescent moon or swirl patterns as depicted in Armies and Enemies of Rome, others suggest the depiction of animals, such as the boar, bull, Capricorn or eagle might also have been used.

Choices.