kindly endorsement and guidance
"the tournament was held under the auspices of the city council"
armor plate that protects the chest; the front part of a cuirass
"The ancient warrior tightened his grip on the spear, ensuring the heavy iron aegis covered his heart before charging into battle."
A mythological shield associated with the Greek deities Zeus and Athena (and their Roman counterparts Jupiter and Minerva) shown as a short cloak made of goatskin worn on the shoulders, more as an emblem of power and protection than a military shield. The aegis of Athena or Minerva is usually shown with a border of snakes and with the head of Medusa in the center.
"The ancient vase painter carefully depicted the goddess holding her distinctive goatskin cloak adorned with serpents to show she was bearing the traditional aegis."