Sword
Germany (?) · 1400s · Cleveland Museum of Art
Guide
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From the museum
During medieval times, everyday objects carried deep spiritual meanings. The knight's sword was perceived as the noblest of weapons because its shape symbolized the cross on which Christ died. The unornamented surfaces and signs of use on this sword and those similar to it lead us to believe that they were used in battle. Despite their utilitarian purpose, the blacksmith added details to the handles and hilts to make them visually appealing.
The museum’s own description, in English. Licence: CC0
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Details
- Maker
- Germany (?)
- Date
- 1400s
- Medium
- steel; wood and leather grip
- Dimensions
- Overall: 104.2 cm (41 in.); Blade: 87.3 cm (34 3/8 in.); Quillions: 20.3 cm (8 in.)
- Place of origin
- Germany (?)
- Held by
- Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland · On view · 210A Armor Court
- Credit line
- Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Severance
Image: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0