EN
♡
Parrying Dagger — Italy, late 16th – early 17th Century

Click image to view full screen

Written by: Hannah RomanoContributing Writer · Manuscripts & Rare Books
Arms & Armour · Catalogue no. 15679
Italy, late 16th – early 17th Century

Parrying Dagger

StatusReference work · Not for sale
Held byCleveland Museum of Art
Own a comparable work? Consign with us

✓ Authenticity guarantee · ✓ Specialist condition report · ✓ Insured worldwide shipping · ✓ Private-room viewing

The perforations within the blade were meant to provide elasticity, preventing it from snapping during vigorous parries. The serrations were arranged not for producing an unpleasant wound, but to "catch" the adversary's blade.

Artist / MakerItaly, late 16th – early 17th Century
Datec. 1580–1610
Culture / OriginItaly, late 16th - early 17th Century
Mediumsteel, copper wire
DimensionsOverall: 26.5 cm (10 7/16 in.); Blade: 17.2 cm (6 3/4 in.); Quillions: 8.4 cm (3 5/16 in.)
DepartmentMedieval Art
TypeArms and Armor
About the Artist

Full biography →

Provenance & Source

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

Condition

A detailed condition report and high-resolution photography are available from our specialists in advance of the sale.

Shipping & Collection

Fine-art shipping with climate control and full insurance to over 120 countries; collection by appointment.

Buying at Matchless Pieces

Register, verify your identity, and bid online or in a private room. Buyer’s premium and taxes are shown before you confirm.

The Matchless Letter

Sale previews, new discoveries in illumination and miniature, and private-room invitations.