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Title
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German Hunting Crossbow
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HCA Identifier
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M.2744-1931
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Date
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ca.1590
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Location
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Germany
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Description
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This German hunting crossbow features an engraved wooden stock inlaid with panels of engraved staghorn. Along the side of the wooden stock a raised harlequin pattern. The top of the stock is an inlaid panel of staghorn which has been engraved with delicate foliage at the butt, around the lock and the reinforcing rivet. The stock has also been engraved with repeating geometric patterns and groups of small lines. On the side of the stock, just below the lock is a small four legged mammal engraved in staghorn. Uniquely, the steel prod and trigger guard are also etched with delicate stylized foliage, masks, beasts and male figures.
As noted by the Victoria and Albert Museum, the rope cords and trigger nut may be original to the crossbow. This crossbow was left to the Museum in 1931 by Mr. G. H. Ramsbottom through Art Fund. Its prior provenance is unknown.
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Source
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Victoria and Albert Museum, South Kensington
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Crossbow Top Measurements
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Length: 68.8cm
Width: 64.1cm
Depth: 12.5cm
Weight: 2.52kg
