Macedonian phalangite, late 4th century BC

This illustration shows a Macedonian soldier from the time of Alexander the Great, a type of unit that fought in phalanx formation. This type of formation created a wall of pikes and shields that was practically impenetrable from the front and, when viewed from a distance, resembled a hedgehog. It was the most lethal infantry unit of antiquity until the appearance of the Roman infantry maniples. This particular phalangite is equipped with a Thracian-type bronze helmet, a muscled breastplate and bronze greaves. As offensive equipment, he carries a pike known as a sarissa, which used to measure about 5 metres in length, reaching 7 metres in later centuries, a sheathed xiphos-type sword and a smaller round shield hanging from his arm, decorated with the symbol of the Macedonian dynasty.