Large two-handed sword

Large two-handed sword of Swiss or German origin. Many two-handed swords have compound hilts with side-rings and enlarged cross guards - some of which can reach to 12 inches. Most of these weapons also have small, pointed lugs protruding below the guard, which act as a secondary guard to catch other weapons and keep them far from the hands.   These swords represent the final stage in the trend of increasing size that started in the 14th century. The two-handed sword acquired the characteristics of a polearm rather than a sword due to their large size and weight and therefore increased range and striking power. Consequently, it was not carried in a sheath but across the shoulder like a Halberd.   By the second half of the 16th century, these swords had largely ceased to have a practical application but were still seen as a symbol of status. They continued to see ceremonial or representative use well into the 17th century.   This sword is the largest in Lord Howard de Walden's collection with a total lenght of 6 and a half feet!