Circa 1370 Oakeshott XIIa Great Sword found in Iraq

~ Circa 1370 Oakeshott XIIa Great Sword found in Iraq ~

Typical of the High Middle Ages, these swords begin to show greater tapering of the blade and a shortened fuller, features which improve thrusting capabilities while maintaining a good cut.

Subtype XIIa (originally classified as XIIIa) consists of the longer, more massive greatswords that appear in the mid–13th century, which precede the later long-swords and were probably designed to counter the improved mail armor of the time.

Our piece is a fine specimen, exemplifying a full-length taper and narrow fuller, which terminates 2/3 down the blade.

Type XIIa has a long grip similar to that of type XIIIa. The XIIa was originally a part of the XIIIa classification, but Oakeshott decided they “taper[ed] too strongly” and were “too acutely pointed” to fit appropriately.

The pommel is a heavy circular piece, as seen in the pictures.

~ Condition ~

The sword is in relic condition, as seen in the pictures.

~ Dimension ~

The blade length is 94cm (37 inches) and the overall length of the piece is 122cm (48 inches).

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