Two Handed Sword, Mid-16th C, German Landsknecht

An early fighting form two-hander of simple form, far more scarce than the frequently encountered processional swords of the late 16th and early 17th C. Iron hilt of round section bars featuring straight quillons with expanded finials. Two large side rings (old brazed repairs). Large pear-shaped pommel with decorative copper washer and iron spacer. Old leather-covered wood grip, once having brass tack decoration, now removed. Broad (2 1/4") unmarked double-edged 42 3/8" blade with wide fuller over nearly its entire length. Metal mostly smooth, with some areas of light pitting. Overall length 56 3/4". For similar example, see "The Price Guide to Antique Edged Weapons", by Leslie Southwick, 1983, Fig. 51. Former G. E. P. How Collection.