Physical description

The hilt and scabbard mounts chiselled and blued against a gilt ground, by Emanuel or Daniel Sadeler.

Place of Origin

Munich (made)

Date

early 17th century (made)

Artist/maker

Sadeler, Daniel (maker)
Sadeler, Emanuel (maker)

Materials and Techniques

chiselled steel, blued and gilt

Dimensions

Length: 42.4 cm Sheathed dagger, Width: 13.5 cm Quillons (crossbars on hilt), Depth: 4.9 cm Hilt

Historical context note

A system of fencing which used a dagger defensively held in the left hand was introduced in the first half of the 16th century. It remained popular in Spain and Italy throughout the 17th century. The blade of a 'main gauche' or 'left hand' dagger was usually straight and double edged, frequently with prongs or serrations designed to catch an opponent's blade. The counterguard of Spanish daggers was often triangular and the guard was usually decorated en suite with the rapier.

Descriptive line

Main gauche and sheath, the hilt and mounts chiselled and blued against a gilt ground, by Emanuel or Daniel Sadeler, Bavaria (Munich), early 17th century

Bibliographic References (Citation, Note/Abstract, NAL no)

Hayward, J.F. Swords and Daggers. London: HMSO, 1963
Patterson, Angus, Fashion and Armour in Renaissance Europe: Proud Lookes and Brave Attire, V&A Publishing, London, 2009, ISBN 9781851775811, p. 61, ill.

Categories

Arms & Armour; Europeana Fashion Project

Collection

Metalwork Collection