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Parade Sword — Italy, Ferrara, early 16th Century

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Written by: Leon LeclercContributing Writer · Manuscripts & Rare Books
Arms & Armour · Catalogue no. 9471
Italy, Ferrara, early 16th Century

Parade Sword

StatusReference work · Not for sale
Held byCleveland Museum of Art
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This parade sword has a steel blade with etched and gilded bands of decoration. The decoration includes allegorical figures such as dancing satyrs and nymphs, amorini or cupids, and triumphs. The pommel, the rounded knob on the end of the handle, is flat and shaped like a shield; a raised rosette further embellishes it. The quillons or two transverse projecting members forming the cross guard, are flattened and drooping toward the blade.

Artist / MakerItaly, Ferrara, early 16th Century
Datec. 1500–1525
Culture / OriginItaly, Ferrara, early 16th Century
Mediumsteel, etched and gilded
DimensionsOverall: 101.9 cm (40 1/8 in.); Blade: 85.4 cm (33 5/8 in.); Quillions: 17.5 cm (6 7/8 in.); Grip: 11.1 cm (4 3/8 in.)
DepartmentMedieval Art
TypeArms and Armor
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Provenance & Source

Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.

Condition

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