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Title
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A 15th century Swiss Crossbow by Ulrich Bock
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Collection Location
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Swiss National Museum, Zurich
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Date
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c. 1460
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Location
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Switzerland
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Description
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The crossbows has a prod made of horn and an iron foot stirrup. The nut lock seems to be made of gold, or it is an iron lock painted with gold and the stock is made of wood according to the features described for similar crossbows of the period and geographical location (See link below for source). There are grey geometric patterns around the sides of the stock and surrounding the nut. The composition of the trigger mechanism is not visible as this is the only picture found of this particular crossbow. It was made by an individual named Ulrich Bock
Crossbows in Switzerland were significant because of the legend of the folk hero, Wilhem Tell’s story and his mastery of the weapon. It was used during the 15th century by the country to regain military and political influence. However, it is to be noted that the myth of Wilhelm Tell was only popularized after Friedrich Von Schiller’s play about his deeds which was published after this crossbow was manufactured, deeming it unclear whether it was inspired by the legend or not.
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Source
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Swiss National Museum
For the description of other crossbows- https://sammlung.nationalmuseum.ch/de/list/collection?sID=69&detailID=100291657
For the details about William Tell's legend- https://houseofswitzerland.org/swissstories/history/william-tell-symbol-switzerland-known-throughout-world
