Saber with Scabbard and Strap

ca. 1550

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 373

This saber was probably made in Hungary during its occupation by the Ottoman Turks. The hilt, with dragon-headed quilloins, is of Islamic type; the blade is inscribed "Made by Muhammad." Both the hilt and the blade are of pattern-welded steel. This sword comes from the armory of the prince-electors of Saxony in Dresden.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

References

Title: Saber with Scabbard and Strap
Date: ca. 1550
Culture: Eastern European, probably Hungary
Medium: Steel, gold, wood, leather
Dimensions: L. 41 1/2 in. (105.4 cm); L. of blade 35 5/16 in. (89.7 cm); Wt. 3 lb. 7 oz. (1559 g); Wt. of scabbard 1 lb. 11 oz. (765.4 g); Wt. of strap (c) 4.6 oz. (130.4 g)
Classification: Swords
Credit Line: Bashford Dean Memorial Collection, Funds from various donors, 1929
Object Number: 29.158.717a–c
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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