Dean Castle Arms and Armour

Poignard

Period:

16th Century

Description:

This striking 16^th century poignard has a hilt of blackened steel with silver applique foliage decorations and flamboyant blade. It is likely of Flemish origin and has a fig-shaped pommel and grip of baluster form. It has short and flat quillons that droop towards the double edged blade. The quillon has an image of a woman in low relief in its centre, balanced by foliate decoration on each of its terminals.

 

With its flamboyant blade, this poignard is a scultpure in steel. The poignard, or long dagger, was usually carried along with a rapier or sword as a parrying dagger for the non-dominant hand in confrontation. However, it was often carried alone as a fashion accessory, and wreaked no more damage than inflicting envy in other gentlemen around town.

Dimensions:

L: 1'2" (8.75 in blade); W: 1" (blade); Wt: 13oz

Source:

Dean Castle

Digital Number:

RI_DC_0006031

Copyright:

East Ayrshire Council