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Two-Handed Sword — Germany, second half 16th Century

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Written by: Lars WeberContributing Writer · Manuscripts & Rare Books
Arms & Armour · Catalogue no. 17333
Germany, second half 16th Century

Two-Handed Sword

StatusReference work · Not for sale
Held byCleveland Museum of Art
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The two-handed sword, originally a weapon of war for specialist infantry, is so named because two hands were required to wield it. By the late 1600s, these enormous swords assumed a largely ceremonial or bodyguard function.

Artist / MakerGermany, second half 16th Century
Date1550–1600
Culture / OriginGermany, second half 16th Century
Mediumsteel, leather and wood grip, bronze pommel
DimensionsOverall: 170.5 cm (67 1/8 in.); Blade: 125.6 cm (49 7/16 in.); Quillions: 53.7 cm (21 1/8 in.); Grip: 43.2 cm (17 in.); Ricasso: 34.7 cm (13 11/16 in.)
DepartmentMedieval Art
TypeArms and Armor
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Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.

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