Two-Handed Sword of the State Guard of Julius of Brunswick-Lunüneburg

The Cleveland Museum of Art catalogs Two-Handed Sword of the State Guard of Julius of Brunswick-Lunüneburg as arms and armor (Germany, Brunswick, 16th century · 1574).

WHY IT’S INTERESTING

The sheer size of this sword is both awe-inspiring and intimidating, but the highly ornate engraved details indicate that it wasn't used in battle. Imagine your security system being a guard wielding a blade similar to this one.

SERENDIPITYA little unexpected

FamiliarWeird

A CLOSER LOOK

The museum identifies this arms and armor as steel, leather and wire bound grip.

The museum's collection notes: This is one of a large series of swords distinguished by the fish-shaped crossbar on the hilt (quillon) and pierced, crutch-shaped pommels. Each sword in this series is also dated and numbered. The crowned monogram of Duke Julius, the year 1574, and the number of this particular sword (N 59) are etched on the portion of the blade between the hilt and the beginning of the sword’s edge (or ricasso).

FOLLOW THE EVIDENCE

The Cleveland Museum of ArtTwo-Handed Sword of the State Guard of Julius of Brunswick-Lunüneburg

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