Parade Sword
Unknown Artist
c. 1500–1525
Medium
steel, etched and gilded
Dimensions
l. 101.9 cm · blade: l. 85.4 cm
Classification
Arms and Armor
Department
Medieval Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Severance
Accession Number
1916.704
About this artwork
This parade sword has a steel blade with etched and gilded bands of decoration. The decoration includes allegorical figures such as dancing satyrs and nymphs, amorini or cupids, and triumphs. The pommel, the rounded knob on the end of the handle, is flat and shaped like a shield; a raised rosette further embellishes it. The quillons or two transverse projecting members forming the cross guard, are flattened and drooping toward the blade.