Halberd
Culture
Swiss
Date1600s
Mediumsteel, brass and wood with textiles
Dimensions199.4 × 39.4 cm (78 1/2 × 15 1/2 in.), 5 lb, 10 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.181
DescriptionSteel. Form associated with Swiss 17th c. revival forms of 14th c. type. Stout thrusting blade of diamond section with quadrangular reinforced heavy point. Cleaver-like axe blade with convex edge opposed by short right-angled fluke. At base of socket is quadrangular spike, once matched by 1 opposite, now missing. Socket extends just below head & down restored wooden staff in pair of wide langets. Staff of octagonal section with red tassels at base of head & langets. Cf. WAM 2014.140.ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins on August 20, 1929 from Liberty & Co. Ltd., London. Given to the Museum on December 15, 1931. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on view
1625–1650
about 1680
