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Sword — Italy

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Written by: Layla FischerContributing Writer · Manuscripts & Rare Books
Arms & Armour · Catalogue no. 16417
Italy

Sword

StatusReference work · Not for sale
Held byCleveland Museum of Art
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The hilt of this sword is russeted, a decorative technique popular in France and England that imparts a brownish color to the surface of the metal. It was achieved by a chemical process that involved treating the steel surface with a mild corrosive medium. As an added benefit the process also helps protect against rust.

Artist / MakerItaly
Datec.1550
Culture / OriginItaly
Mediumsteel, hilt russetted, leather grip
DimensionsOverall: 100 cm (39 3/8 in.); Blade: 87 cm (34 1/4 in.); Quillions: 6.3 cm (2 1/2 in.); Grip: 11.5 cm (4 1/2 in.)
DepartmentMedieval Art
TypeArms and Armor
About the Artist

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Provenance & Source

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

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