Welsh Bill
Culture
English
Dateprobably 1600s
Mediumsteel and wood
Dimensions228 × 39 cm (89 3/4 × 15 3/8 in.), 3 lb, 14 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.212
DescriptionHead consists of a long, light, scythe-like main blade of triangular cross-section with an additional thrusting spike near its tip; also a rear projection near the base of the main blade which supports a curved spike of quadrangular cross-section. There is a long conical socket, open on one side except for a band around the base. No langets. Restored staff of round cross-section.Label TextThis weapon is a variant on the bill, an agricultural tool that evolved into a military weapon. But the elongated lines of the "Welsh bill" make the weapon too delicate for battlefield use. Such weapons were mostly carried by town guards, serving largely as a deterrent to unruly crowds.ProvenanceClarence H. Mackay collection (#J-121) Purchased by Museum on June 1, 1942 from Gimbel Brothers (NYC). Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
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