Two-Handed Sword

Culture German

Dateabout 1600

Mediumsteel and iron with stamped decoration with modern wood, leather and textiles

Dimensions175.3 × 127.6 cm (69 × 50 1/4 in.), 7 lb, 15 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.126

DescriptionSteel. Long double edge blade of flattened hexagonal section, expanding gently to triangular point. Long rectangular ricasso with pair of pointed lugs. Broad iron crossguard curving gently towards blade with voluted terminals and projections. Pair of large open side rings with trilobated, pointed and voluted projections within. Guard is blackened with chiseled crescents & filed notches. Restored black wooden grip with three-stage molding at mid-height. Mushroom-shaped iron pommel, cut into four (4) vertical facets, colored and decorated to match crossguard.
Label TextThis sword is right at the upper end of size for battlefield swords, though it was probably never swung in anger. Two handed swords were at their height around 1500. By the time this one was made, they served chiefly for ceremonial purposes, carried by the followers of important leaders.ProvenancePurchased by Museum from American Art Association, Anderson Galleries (NYC) on February 5, 1938 (Offerman Gest sale, #4371, lot #139). Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, january 2014.

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