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Title
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Crossbow (Halbe Rüstung) with Cranequin (Winder)
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HCA Identifier
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14.25.1574a, b
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Date
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1575–1650
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Location
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Saxony, Germany (most likely)
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Description
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This crossbow, held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is dated between 1575 and 1650. The crossbow is accompanied by a cranequin dated from 1562. The bow and cranequin are most likely to have their origins in Saxony, Germany.
The walnut stock is decorated with patterns in inlaid antler or bone; the top and bottom of the stock are veneered with antler or bone, and engraved with patterns. The rolling nut is set in the top of the stock, and includes an iron reinforcement set in the middle of the nut. Behind the nut is the remnant of a bolt clip, likely made from cow horn. Just behind the clip there is a folding rear sight made from iron, which is adjustable vertically and horizontally. Farther back, a transverse pin is set horizontally through the stock, which serves as an anchor point for the cranequin spanning mechanism. Towards the rear, a thumb rest in brass is set in the top of the stock. The lock is likely a four-axle mechanism with a “hair” trigger, protected by a long L-shaped trigger guard. A swiveling safety latch is located on the underside directly in front of the trigger guard. The nut is secured by a hemp thread bound around the stock. The steel bow is bound to the front of the stock by hemp cords, which also hold a suspension ring. Pompoms of green wool decorate the bow.
Dimensions/Measurements Crossbow, Length: 63 cm, Width, 59.5 cm, Weight: 3775g Cranequin, Length: 34.8cm, Width: 10.4cm, Weight 2567g
Other notes: Gift of William H. Riggs, 1913
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Source
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Collection Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA
