Katzbalger, Senior Officer Of Lansquenet, 16th Century

16th Century Landsknecht High Ranking Officers Katzbalger

A Landsknecht Katzbalger single edge sword belonging to a High ranking officers with pattern wielded steel. The Landsknechts gained most fame and notoriety under the rule of Charles V as he spent most of his life waging wars to protect his empire and its integrity. Since he used the Landsknechts as well as well as other mercenaries from his empire including Condottieri from Italy its would be understandable that such fine arms from Italy would also be found with Landsknechts high ranking officers and captains.

This sword is very special having an uncommon blade with pattern wielded steel which has been expertly forged by Master smiths in Italy. It is very uncommon to see blade forged with a pattern wielded steel and would have required significant skill to forge, who ever the officer is who commissioned the sword would have paid a significant sum for it. Charles V ruled a large portion of Europe including the Northern Region of Italy which produced the finest and most advanced arms and armour. The sword can be dated around the 1500’s.

The hilt is in great condition, consisting of a set of S shaped spiral quillons and a second ring guard which flows down protecting the finger in the cut off section of the blade. The handle is likely horn with a disk shaped pommel follows the same design.

The blade is a Single edge blade which is forged with pattern wielding and still holds an edge, the blade is stamped with three marking and truly shows the scars of battle, from delamination’s crack and period repairs using copper or brass.

The sword is extremely rare, it is truly a amazing piece in its original state and worthy of a museum collection.

Specifications:

Overall Sword 82 CM

Blade 70 CM

Weight 0.82 Kg