14th Century Hand-and-a-Half Sword

Royal Armouries Sword #IX.915.

An imposingly large hand-and-a-half sword or longsword, probably of the late-14th century.

The precise origin of this European sword is unknown, but from the markings it is likely to be German or possibly Italian. It found its way into the Arsenal of Alexandria either as a diplomatic gift, war booty or as a tribute object from the Kingdom of Cyprus to the Sultanate of Egypt, where it was inscribed with Arabic text. From there it made its way into at least one private collection, before subsequently being acquired by the Royal Armouries.

This big knightly sword features a broad and powerful Oakeshott Type XVI blade of 38 inches. This is quite a heavy sword by the standards of the day, due to the length and breadth of the blade, but is wonderfully balanced thanks to the distal taper, long grip and large pommel. Similar swords to this can be seen extensively in late-14th and early-15th century art, including manuscripts and also knightly effigies and brasses.

Such swords were popular at this time all over Europe, from England to Italy, from Portugal to Poland, and they are featured in a number of contemporary fighting treatises like Fior di Battaglia by Fiore delli Liberi (1410). They were used on foot and mounted, in armour and unarmoured, with one hand or two-handed. This example is an especially powerful cutting weapon and less specialised tothe thrust than some other longswords of the time.

Our replica closely matches the original in all aspects of form, measurements and manufacture.

The sheath is made with a wood body and covered with leather. The tip is reinforced with a brass chape that features ornate cut-outs and an acorn tip. At the throat, the leather extends upward and covers part of the guard at the ricasso.

Made by Windlass Steelcrafts, the original can be seen in the Royal Armouries Collection, Object Number IX.915.

Includes a certificate of authenticity on heavy stock

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Overall Length: 48-5/16"
• Blade Length: 38"
• Blade Width at Ricasso: 2-1/8"
• Blade Distal Taper: 5/32"
• Weight: 3 lbs, 13 oz
• Material: 1075 high carbon steel
• Edge: Double-edged with bevels, unsharpened
• Balance Point: 3-11/16" from guard

Made by Windlass Steelcrafts®

Official Royal Armouries Licensed Product. The Royal Armouries name is a trademark of Royal Armouries. All Rights Reserved. The Royal Armouries is the UK’s National Museum of Arms and Armour.