Crossbow
c. 1460–70
Maker Unknown
Medieval Art
Crossbow, c. 1460–70. Germany, 15th century. Wood (walnut?) inlaid with bone; horn; iron and steel; composite bow (horn and parchment); overall: 87 cm (34 1/4 in.); bow: 74.5 cm (29 5/16 in.); butt: 4.2 cm (1 5/8 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Severance 1916.1725 The cranequin, or winding device sitting on top of the crossbow, made it easier to span for reloading. With a full quiver, a container for bolts and arrows, a hunter could bring home plenty of meat. In every army in Europe crossbowmen were considered an elite corps, and as such occupied the central position in battle formations.
- Maker/Artist
- Maker Unknown
- Classification
- Arms and Armor
- Formatted Medium
- wood (walnut?) inlaid with bone; horn; iron and steel; composite bow (horn and parchment)
- Dimensions
- Overall: 87 cm (34 1/4 in.); Bow: 74.5 cm (29 5/16 in.); Butt: 4.2 cm (1 5/8 in.)
- Departments
- Medieval Art
- Accession Number
- 1916.1725
- Credit Line
- Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Severance
- Exhibitions
- Armor Court Reinstallation
- Rights Statement
- CC0
- Museum Location
- 210A Armor Court
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