Halberd

Culture Italian

Date1550–1600

Mediumsteel with gilding, wood, possibly copper, and textiles

Dimensions236.2 × 57.2 cm (93 × 22 1/2 in.), 5 lb, 14 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.148

DescriptionCompare to WAM 2014.179, 2014.203. Major differences in that head is not pierced, but punched & chased with foliate tendrils, nude figures & leaved motifs. Possibly once blued or russet, now later gilded overall, but badly worn.

2-piece wooden staff of octagonal section studded with tacks for more than 1/2 its length with fragments of 3 tassels below head. Iron-shod butt with spike. Staff possibly original: good grain, nice fit. Tip is slightly bent--unclear whether this is intentional.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 more decorative than functional, and the beak in back is no longer well designed for piercing armor.ProvenanceMackay collection (#J-87); purchased by Museum from Gimbel Brothers (NYC) on October 31, 1941.
Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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