Steel crossbow

Title

Steel crossbow

Collection Location

Glasgow, Scottland

Date

16th century

Location

England

Description

This crossbow is almost entirely gray, suggesting a full steel build. Endorned with elaborate carving in the top lining of it, maybe even the entire length of it, it suggests a wealthy commisioner to the crossbow maker. Contrary to the regular crossbows, the bridle is almost entirely gray, suggesting a steel reinforcement rather than string traditionally. A pin is present on the crossbow, potentially for the cranequin to interface with. However, the position of the bolt clip and the pin seems way too close on the bow, so further assumptions of the purposes cannot be made until more data is gathered.

The French nobleman René of Anjou (1409–80) penned a letter to a friend who had recently sent him two fine steel crossbows:

"I am told that you are a very good crossbowman and take great pleasure in shooting the crossbow. I tell you that, for my part, throughout all my life I too have taken great pleasure in it."

People of high status across Europe sent crossbows as presents to each other. François I of France sent Henry VIII eight crossbows in 1528. These were made by the royal crossbowmaker (arbalestrier du Roy) Robert du Mesnil. Ten years later François ordered another ‘douze belles arbalestes’ from this same craftsman. Henry also received crossbows as diplomatic gifts from the Holy Roman Emperor Maximilan I.

The bow of this crossbow is very special indeed. Not only is it beautifully decorated with etched and gilt strap- and scroll-work but it is adorned with a symbol denoting ownership by someone of great importance. The Royal coat of arms of England is supported by two animals: a lion and a dragon. Only the Tudor dynasty used this latter animal as an acknowledgement of their Welsh origins. One member of the Tudor dynasty who was an expert hunter and fond of target shooting was Elizabeth I. Every New Year’s Day she was presented with a ‘fair crossbow’ made by some of the finest craftsmen in her realm. This bow may well be one of these.

Source

Glasgow Museum

Link:

Data and images courtesy of:
https://collections.glasgowmuseums.com/mwebcgi/mweb?request=record;id=242541;type=101