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Title
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German Crossbow
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Collection Location
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Oxford, United Kingdom
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Date
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C. 1480
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Location
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Germany
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Description
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This crossbow originates from Germany and is dated to approximately 1480. It consists of a composite prod with remnants of birch bark that once entirely covered the prod, revealing the typical black and white dotted pattern that decorates it. The left side of the prod has been cut two times to be studied for research purposes, with the remaining pieces still with the crossbow. The stock is made from fruitwood and is inlaid with ivory. The sides of the stock feature a plated horn of a green colour and an ornate inlay decoration of a lily, while the top surface of the crossbow is entirely clad in polished antler plates. The cross section possesses a number of different coloured horn plates, including colours of brown, black, and green, all glued together. The sinew around the inner facing part of the prod is in an olive-green colour and has multiple layers. The lock mechanism has been reworked. The trigger lever of the crossbow and the transverse pin are made of metal, and the bridle cord, which binds the prod to the stock, is made of a plant fiber rope.
Measurements:
Overall cross section: 52 mm by 41 mm
Horn core: 42 mm by 20 mm
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Source
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Pitt Rivers Museum
