Cudgel for the "Giuoco del Ponte"

Culture Italian , Pisa

Date1775–1780

Mediumwood and paint

Dimensions67.3 × 11.4 cm (26 1/2 × 4 1/2 in.), 1 lb 16 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

MarkingsLike H.A.M. # 719, brown fish painted on upper part, near top (both sides) - see description.

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.777

DescriptionOf 1 piece of wood, rectangular in section. Rounded at top & narrows to form handle with flared squared-off end that is pierced for thong. Painted "en suite" with HAM# 719. Ground medium green, & both faces are dull red terminating in rounded point just above handle. Like HAM# 719, upper part near rounded top bears painted device of brown fish, each facing tail of the other. Fish on water-stained face is noticeably thicker in body than HAM# 719.
Label TextThe Giuoco del Ponte was a mock battle held annually in Pisa on the Ponte di Mezzo, a bridge crossing the Arno River, from the Middle Ages until 1807. Residents were divided into two teams based on where they lived in relation to the river, and grouped into squadrons within the teams. The object of the battle was to push the opposing team off the bridge within forty-five minutes. Participants used the targone as their only weapon, pushing their opponents with it as well as using it as a shield. Targoni were decorated in the colors of the owner’s squadron. These targoni come from one of the last contests, held in 1776.ProvenanceProbably from the Museo Civico, Pisa Mr. John Wanamaker, New York purchased by John W. Higgins from Mr. John Wanamaker, Inc., New York on February 13, 1929. Given to the Armory on July 1, 1954. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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