Partisan
Culture
Italian
Datelate 1500s–early 1600s
Mediumsteel, brass and wood with textiles
Dimensions246.4 × 16 cm (97 × 6 5/16 in.), 4 lb 12 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.198
DescriptionSteel. Broad double-edge thrusting blade, the edges gently curving to triangular point. Blade of gently hollow-ground hexagonal section with low medial rib extending to socket on both faces. Shoulders of blade drawn into pendant volutes. Pair of voluted & cusped lugs at base of blade with integral short octagonal-section closed socket having pair of langets. Base of head set off by 3-stage molding. Body of thrusting blade & lugs decorated with pointillé tracery & stylized faces on both faces & on socket.
Secured to cloth-covered wooden 10-sided staff with short butt spike, studded over length with domed & fluted bronze-capped tacks. Pair of red & gold tassels below head.
Label TextPartisans and halberds were originally simple weapons of war, but by the 1600s, their role was largely ceremonial. Metalsmiths forged the broad surfaces of the blade into fanciful graphic shapes and often embellished the long staffs with vibrant fabrics and tassels. As weapons, they could be used not only to keep threats at a distance but also to create an imposing presence when carried upright by a large group of bodyguards.ProvenanceGift to Higgins Armory Museum from Worcester Art Museum (Worcester, MA) on June 19, 1947. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
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