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This rapier sword is attributed to D. Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba, the Great Captain. This specimen had specific conditions for combat and was not a parrying sword.
They were carried on foot to the ground hanging from the belt and on horseback, on the pommel of the saddle. They are also known as hand and a half or bastard swords.
- GARNISH: for hand and a half or bastard, made of black varnished iron cross. Pear-shaped pommel, which with the fist, stringed and covered in black leather, helps to hold the weapon with both hands. Arriaz formed by two hawks inclined towards the blade and increasing in thickness as they approach the end. It shows off two bridges, one on the front in an arc shape and the other on the back in an oblique shape, both as hand protection.
- BLADE: straight, wide and flat, with a groove up the middle and two small ones on the back. All of it with two edges and the tip trimmed.
Rapier Sword of the Great Captain (16th century)
Royal Armory of Madrid – NATIONAL HERITAGEAL
To compare current designs related to this historical tour, you can explore sword catalog and renaissance swords. Consult each sheet for the materials, measurements and indicated use; These models do not necessarily reproduce the historical piece described.
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Author: Vicente Toledo Momparler (spadologist)
