Hilt of a Sword for a Member of the Academic Legion

Culture Austrian , Styria

Date1848

Mediumiron

Dimensions20.3 × 16.5 × 3.8 cm (8 × 6 1/2 × 1 1/2 in.), 1 lb, 4 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.442.1

DescriptionOne-piece iron cruciform-shaped hilt, possibly cast. Hilt base with grotesque face, quillon block with 2 "Labors of Hercules" in shield-shaped frame. Straight quillons, consisting of sheaf-like, knobbed projection from mouth of dragon-like beast. Grip in bas-relief, with more of "Labors". Integral fig-shaped pommel similarly decorated.
Label TextThe year 1848 saw revolutions erupt across much of Europe. In Graz, Austria, a revolutionary movement was led by the Academic Legion, a paramilitary unit formed of university students. As with many military and paramilitary organizations, the Legion lavished considerable attention on the design of their uniforms and equipment. The members furnished themselves with elaborate swords that incorporated the classical Labors of Hercules into a neo-medieval cross-hilted design. The matching locket and chape adorned the mouth and tip of the scabbard.ProvenanceAnonymous gift to the Museum on February 1, 1934. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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