Halberd
Culture
Northern German
Datelate 1500s–early 1600s
Mediumsteel, wood and brass
Dimensions248.3 × 74.9 cm (97 3/4 × 29 1/2 in.), 6 lb, 12 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.233
DescriptionSquare columnar body with long quadrangular thrusting spike with square molded base. Downturned, pierced & cusped fluke opposed by large pierced convexly crescentic axe blade. Square columnar socket with moldings above & below & 4 langets (not actually attached to head) on octagonal section wooden staff. The head is apparently attached to the staff with 2 rivets going through, having decorative brass washers. Head is very heavy, and assembled from multiple sections. Blade and fluke are separate pieces riveted to the main column of the head.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 and beak on this one have become largely decorative, and only the thrusting tip retains some functionality.ProvenancePurchased by the Museum on June 5, 1930 from Ernst Schmidt, Munich, Germany.Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
On viewCurrent Location
- Exhibition Location Gallery 2204
1625–1650
