Hand-and-a-Half Sword

Hand-and-a-Half Sword

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This sword is an extremely well proportioned and elegant example of a type that was in use throughout Western Europe from the late fourteenth through the fifteenth century. The steeply pointed blade, indicating that it was primarily intended for thrusting (rather than cutting), coupled with the stiffness of the blade, made it sturdy enough for its primary function, to pierce armor. The sword's form is further enhanced by the slight horizontal reverse curve and dimpled decoration of the cross guard and the faceted and engraved outer face of the pommel, which bears the word "MARIA," a pious invocation to the Virgin Mary. The spherical shape of the pommel and reverse curve of the cross guard are very unusual and distinctive features for a sword of this period with this type of blade.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Hand-and-a-Half SwordHand-and-a-Half SwordHand-and-a-Half SwordHand-and-a-Half SwordHand-and-a-Half Sword

The principal goals of the Arms and Armor Department are to collect, preserve, research, publish, and exhibit distinguished examples representing the art of the armorer, swordsmith, and gunmaker. Arms and armor have been a vital part of virtually all cultures for thousands of years, pivotal not only in conquest and defense, but also in court pageantry and ceremonial events. Throughout time the best armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical capabilities of the society and period in which they were made, forming a unique aspect of both art history and material culture.