Original Item: One of a Kind. This impressive example was most likely originally a CASTLE DISPLAY, which was then sold into private hands. It was at one time in the Collection of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, and then was deacquisitioned. It is full length being 6' 10" (82") in overall length. 

The well-forged head measures 21" overall, excluding the support straps, and has a decoratively pierced blade 7 - 3/4" across. With the straps, the head is approximately 40 inches long. The central spike measures 13" and the fluke 3". The shaft is covered with faded red velvet and decorative tassel below straps, though the tassel is in VERY delicate condition. There are brass tack decorations running down the length of the halberd in the velvet.

The straps do show some old copper brazed repairs. Head shows exfoliation and old European style cleaning. The velvet is worn, and most of the nap of the fabric has worn away. However, the velvet is not original to the piece, but an addition later, to enhance the look while on display, most likely at a major estate or castle. The style of the halberd leads us to believe that it is probably English, but without more definitive information, we can only say it is European.

Very impressive, ready to hang on the wall!

A halberd (also called halbard, halbert or Swiss voulge) is a two-handed pole weapon that came to prominent use during the 14th and 15th centuries. The word halberd is most likely equivalent to the German word Hellebarde, deriving from Middle High German halm (handle) and barte (battleaxe) joint to helmbarte. Troops that used the weapon are called halberdiers.

The halberd consists of an axe blade topped with a spike mounted on a long shaft. It always has a hook or thorn on the back side of the axe blade for grappling mounted combatants. It is very similar to certain forms of the voulge in design and usage. The halberd was usually 1.5 to 1.8 metres (5 to 6 feet) long

Regrets: Due to the length of this item, we are not able to ship internationally.