The Sword in the Age of ChivalryEwart OakeshottLabel: The Boydell PressDescription: A comprehensive history and typology of the European knightly sword from c.1050 to c.1550 that draws on evidence from literature and art as well as from archaeology.The resplendent image of the medieval knight is symbolised by his sword a lethal weapon on the battlefield and a badge of chivalry in that complex social code. Ewart Oakeshott draws on his extensive research to recount the history of the sword from the knightly successors of the Viking weapon to the emergence of the Renaissance sword - roughly from 1050 to 1550. Evidence for dating is adduced from literature and art as well as from archaeology and a detailed chronological typology of swords is developed based on entire swords pommel-forms cross-guards and the grip and scabbard. With clear illustrations and invaluable photographic plates The Sword in the Age of Chivalryoffers first-class reference material for all weapons enthusiasts. The late EWART OAKESHOTT was an authority on the arms and armour of medieval Europe. His other books include Records of the Medieval Sword and TheArchaeology of Weapons.
