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Title
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Stirrup Crossbow, 15th Century
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HCA Identifier
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F 0083
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Collection Location
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Geneva, Switzerland
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Date
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mid 15th century
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Location
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Switzerland (possibly Fribourg)
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Description
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The ends of the composite bow have notches meant for the bowstring (the original is lost - the bowstring in the picture is a reproduction). The composite bow was once covered in birch bark, pressed with a fish skin pattern, to prevent humidity damage. Bindings go around the stirrup and bow and through the stock to secure them all together. Inlay made of deer’s antler goes down the stock. A gothic-style “E” is found on the right side of the stock, likely a maker’s mark or owner’s mark. The emblem of the Arsenal of Fribourg is found near the end of the stock.
The crossbow is not currently on display (as of fall 2025).
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Source
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Art and History Museum of Geneva (MAH: Musée d'art et d'histoire à Genève)
Received from an exchange with the Arsenal of Fribourg in 1872
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Crossbow Top Measurements
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Length: 81.5 cm (about 2 ft 8 in)
Width (bow length): 76.5 cm (about 2 ft 6 in)
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Crossbow Side Measurements
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Depth: 11.5 cm (about 5 in)
Weight: 2.740 kg (about 6 lbs)
