Welcome!

Hi, I’m Cataldo!

I’ve been told by several people that I’m a difficult person to categorize in the SCA because I love finding new things and learning about them. Luckily for me, with a little bit of elbow grease and Google, I’ve made this website as a place to serve as a repository of my interests, research, artwork, and martial activities.

For my artistic endeavors, I primarily focus on phaleristics (the study of awards and recognition among groups) and producing items along the same line of inquiry. This means the majority of my work is in metal and encompasses chasing and repoussé, casting, and engraving. I also do more general blacksmithing and armoring as time and shop space allow.

On the martial side of the SCA, I enjoy Cut and Thrust, fencing, and taking the field for armored combat at wars. One of my passions however is bridging the perceived gap between artisans and fighters; to that end I’ve hosted numerous round table discussions to try to break down those walls. The reason is simple: we should all be having fun together and sharing our knowledge with one another!

Baron Cataldo

I’ve been a member of the Society for Creative Anachronism for nearly 15 years and have lived in three different Kingdoms. I was initially drawn to the SCA by the artistry and my desire to make cool things myself. Along the way, I’ve come to also enjoy the various martial and service activities the SCA has to offer. Whether it’s being a part of a line of two hundred fighters smashing into the enemy, or standing behind Royalty to make The Dream come alive for other people, I’ve grown to love this crazy group of medieval enthusiasts like an extended family.

  • Some fittings to be used as masters for casting in brass.
  • Cast medallions for the King’s Award of Excellence.
  • Three White Scarves I received upon joining the Order.
  • On the field at Pennsic

While we may not always agree on how a piece of armor might have been made, what fabrics are the best for certain garments, or even how to best manage the game, our shared passion, courtesy, and sense of adventure are what have kept me in the Society for all of these years.

If you see me at an event or wandering the road at War, stop and say hello! I’m always open to hearing about your pursuit of The Dream.