Halberd
Culture
Flemish
Dateabout 1620-1650
Mediumiron, steel, wood, brass with textiles
Dimensions240 × 43.2 cm (94 1/2 × 17 in.), 3 lb, 2 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.170
DescriptionIron. Tapering double edged thrusting blade of lozenge section with molded swelling at base & flattened below. Flat fluke carved to resemble bird heads. Small crescentic axe blade similarly fashioned. Conical socket with turned molding above & carved to resemble alternating plain & striped panels. Head deeply engraved & punched. Red tassel at base of socket with octagonal section wooden staff, studded with brass tacks below head & fitted with iron shod butt.The head is slight and light, especially relative to the overall weapon length.Label TextHalberds had been an important battlefield weapon in the late Middle Ages, but by the time this one was made they were increasingly serving as badges of rank. The axehead on this one has become purely decorative, and the beak in back is no longer designed for piercing armor. Only the thrusting tip remains functional for combat.ProvenanceGift to Higgins Armory Museum from Worcester Art Museum (Worcester, MA) on June 19, 1947.
Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
On viewCurrent Location
- Exhibition Location Gallery 2204
1625–1650
1625–1650
