Dean Castle Arms and Armour

Rapier with knight's head pommel

Period:

16th Century

Description:

This unusual and ornate 16^th century rapier is part of a set of armour and weaponry worn by the bodyguard of the Elector of Saxony.  The Elector of Saxony were among some of the only European princes of the period to have outiftted their bodyguards with matching equipment. The grip is bound in silver wire and twisted copper ribbon, while the pommel is of blackened steel chiseled in the form of a bearded man with a plumed helmet.  This head motif is repeated in the quillion and guard ends.  The anneau (the ring extending from the crossbar) is decorated with floral silver applique patterns and is chiseled with the figure of a horseman.  The blade carries a monogram "The Running Wolf" inlaid in brass.

Materials/Media:

steel, silver applique, silver wire, copper ribbon, brass inlay

Dimensions:

blade 935mm, hilt 204mm

Source:

Dean Castle

Digital Number:

RI_DC_00000132

Copyright:

East Ayrshire Council