War Hammer

Unknown

15th century · Steel, wood (oak) · Arms and Armor

Weapons of this type were used in the combat on foot as a display of prowess, or in a judicial combat to terminate some personal quarrel. Such foot combats were fought according to rules. For example, the number of strokes would be arranged, i.e. twelve with the axe, and as many with the sword, and with the dagger. The opponents were well protected with armor, so that even when hammering at each other with these formidable weapons death seldom occurred, and even injuries were rare.

Artist

Unknown

Date

15th century

Medium

Steel, wood (oak)

Culture

Italian

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Gift of William H. Riggs, 1913