Sword Pommel
Culture
European
Date1300s–1400s
Mediumiron
Dimensions5.1 × 5.4 cm (2 × 2 1/8 in.), 1 lb, 1 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.418
DescriptionOf polished iron. Large, octagonal pommel, with bevelled edges and an irregularly circular, shallow recess on front and rear. Pierced axially with a broad, rectangular slot tapering to the top, for the tang of the blade.Label TextThe pommel is a characteristic feature of European swords. It serves to balance the weight of the blade, making the weapon easier to control. Almost every sword blade has a long, narrow projection called the tang, to which the grip is secured. Once the grip was in place, the pommel was slipped over the projecting end of the tang, and the stub of the tang was hammered down to secure the assembled weapon. Early pommels tended to have simple geometrical shapes, but by the end of the Middle Ages they were being carved into elaborate forms. The style of pommel is often crucial to dating a sword, but many surviving examples have had their pommels replaced at some point, making the task a considerable challenge.ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins from the Bashford Dean estate, his no. 63, on 30 September 1929. Price paid for lot of seven items was $20.00. Given to the Museum on 1 July 1954. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
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