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Title
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A GERMAN SPORTING CROSSBOW,
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Collection Location
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Private Collection
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Date
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LATE 16TH CENTURY
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Location
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Germany
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Description
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The steel prod is struck with two marks (Neue Støckel 6451)and retained by later addition cords. The prod is fitted with an adjustable steel collar joined by a steel stirrup on each side of the stock and later bowstring. The hardwood stock is veneered with engraved staghorn plaques on the top and bottom. The latter is decorated with two allegorical figures including fortune beneath the bow, a green man mask centring on an aperture for inserting loading rods, and profile masks on each side of the mechanism. The sides of the stock are finely inlaid with engraved staghorn plaquettes, including a running pattern of scrolling foliage, ball flowers and profile masks. The top of the stock is fitted with a later wooden bar for use as a slurbow. The iron nut, iron trigger-guard and a pair of iron lugs for loading are visible. It would appear that this was modified for use as a slurbow in the early 19th century, which is probably when the string and cords were replaced.
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Source
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Thomas Del Mar Ltd in association with Sotheby's
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Crossbow Top Measurements
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59cm; 23 1/4in stock
