Ceremonial Halberd Blade Of The Swiss Guards At Hercule

France or the Franco-Rhenish region, late 17th–early 18th century.

Openwork halberd head made of gilded metal, with rich allegorical decoration inspired by Greco-Roman antiquity.

In the center stands Hercules, naked and bearded, depicted standing full-face, leaning on his club. He is leaning against an obelisk adorned with laurel leaves, a symbol of glory and victory.

In the upper section is a circular medallion framing a male head, surrounded by two nude genii blowing trumpets, an allegory of Fame.

The design is complemented by military trophies, standards, drums, and foliage, as well as two figures seated in profile in the lower section: a Roman soldier and a naked man, evoking the heroic virtues and power inherited from antiquity.

This iconography corresponds to the ceremonial halberds carried by the Swiss Guards, masters of ceremony responsible for maintaining order during processions and religious services.

A particularly compelling comparison can be drawn with a halberd housed at the Musée d’Art religieux de l’Orne, which features the same decorative composition centered on Hercules.

Length: 48 cm.

In very good overall condition. Wear, small irregularities, and minor losses consistent with its age and use.