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Title
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A German Decorated Sporting Crossbow (Halbe Rüstung), Late 16th Century
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Collection Location
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London, United Kingdom
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Date
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Late 16th Century
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Location
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Germany
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Description
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This sporting crossbow is dated to the late 16th century and originates from Germany. It consists of a wooden stock that is veneered and inlaid and across its surface and the butt of the stock. The stock features ornate decorations that depict a series of scrolled and spiral patterns, animals, and floral designs on the top and bottom of the borders. On the upper surface of the stock is an image of biblical figures such as Jacob, an angel, and a person and a stag wrestling behind the nut. Other scenes along the staghorn cheek rest depict three archers with bows and a king (likely Joshua) stabbed with two crossbow bolts. Underneath the stock are signs of damage and minor repairs to some imagery of women figures and an allegory about faith on the butt of the stock. The crossbow features a four-axel trigger system with a bone rolling nut mechanism that is secured with a piece of thread. There is also an iron transverse pin used to support the cranequin, a device that helps span the crossbow. The crossbow also has an opening for the cocking pin. The folding sight is located behind the rolling nut. The trigger is made of brass with a knob on its end. The butt-plate is made of staghorn and depicts a sign of Hope.
Measurements: 61.5 cm tiller
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Source
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Olympia Auctions
