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[480] The meaning of the triple ἄντυξ is not clear. Löschcke (v. Helbig H. E. 385-86) takes it to mean triple woven, and explains it by an ornament found on the margins of many of the most ancient Greek shields, consisting of an imitation plaited work of three strands. It is, however, more likely that “ἄντυξ” means an actual part of the shield than a mere ornament on the surface, and “τρίπλαξ” is probably not derived from “πλέκω”, but is only a secondary form of “τριπλός” (cf. “ἐριβῶλαξ” by “ἐρίβωλος”). So “δίπλαξ” of fat 23.243, though 3.126 “μέγαν ἱστὸν ὕφαινε δίπλακα” might be claimed for the other side. Perhaps three out of the five layers of hide were turned up so as to form a rim, the full thickness not being needed at this part, or the rim may have been formed by three flat metal bands laid one upon the other. See note on 6.117. With the ἀργύρεος τελαμών compare the “χρύσεοι ἀορτῆρες” of 11.31.

The Iliad, edited, with apparatus criticus, prolegomena, notes, and appendices. Walter Leaf. London. Macmillan. 1900.

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