-40%
Eastern Europe Broadsword: Medieval, Austrian Blade, Lead Hilt w/traces of gold
$ 659.47
- Description
- Size Guide
Description
Medieval Era Heavy Broadsword. Estimate to be circa late 1400's-1500's.Heavy double edged sword with a heavy lead or lead alloy grip. There are faint traces of gold gilding to this lead/lead alloy handle, which I believe was a medieval attempt to make it appear as a solid gold handle likely for ceremonial use or for a display of wealth and power. There is very little reason to make a handle completely out of solid lead as the weight would seem to be impractical for combat use (unless it was used for execution purposes). Handle appears to be the original period match to the blade (I have had many composite swords over the years, and this one looks untouched). Blade shows faint traces of half moon marks under heavy patina on both sides which are Austrian blade marks from the late 1400's-1500's. Blade has 3 graduating fullers on each side running about half way up the blade from the handle. The style of the handle on this sword appears Eastern European and likely from The Lands of the Bohemian Crown or Poland. A sword similar in appearance to some of the documented 16th century medieval Arab straight blade swords (copied from the European style) and then the later Kaskara type sword later adopted and widely used in West Africa until the nineteenth century. Handle is 6 1/4" (grip at 5 1/4") which is almost for hand and half use rather than single handed use only. Heavy lead handle shows signs of impact and quillons are slightly bent. Pommel is dented and impacted many times, but still retains it's shape. The very tip of the blade showing a little loss, and appears to have been done hundreds of years ago.
This is truly a rare sword that may have a an important history. Might take a bit of medieval research to figure out, but would be worth the effort. Either way, it is an amazing sword for any advanced collector.
Total length: 44'
Blade length: 37 3/4"
Weight: 5 lbs. 10.6 oz.
Please view the pictures provided to accurately describe this item. I recommend consulting an expert if you have any questions or concerns on origin/authenticity. Age described on this item is an approximation and bidders/buyers will need to make their own determination on age/authenticity.
Ask questions if you have them, I will do my best to answer.
Item will be shipped insured with tracking provided.
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