Executioner's Sword
blade dated 1634
Maker Unknown
Medieval Art
Executioner's Sword, blade dated 1634. Germany, 17th century. Steel; overall: 98.1 cm (38 5/8 in.); blade: 75.3 cm (29 5/8 in.); quillions: 15.5 cm (6 1/8 in.); grip: 22.5 cm (8 7/8 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Severance 1916.1616 An executioner's sword is specifically designed and balanced for decapitation, not combat. It usually features short quillons or cross guards, as the hands did not need added protection, and a blunt end. In wide use during the 1600s, by the 1700s they were largely out of use except for ceremonial purposes. The blades of executioner's swords were often decorated with moralistic inscriptions.
- Maker/Artist
- Maker Unknown
- Classification
- Arms and Armor
- Formatted Medium
- steel
- Medium
- steel
- Dimensions
- Overall: 98.1 cm (38 5/8 in.); Blade: 75.3 cm (29 5/8 in.); Quillions: 15.5 cm (6 1/8 in.); Grip: 22.5 cm (8 7/8 in.)
- Inscribed
- Inscription: VIAT JUSTICIDET VERBUM CARO FACTUM, 1634
- Departments
- Medieval Art
- Accession Number
- 1916.1616
- Credit Line
- Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Severance
- Exhibitions
- European Arms and Armor from the Cleveland Museum of Art (Long-term Loan), Armor Court Reinstallation
- Rights Statement
- CC0
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