1642) ITALIAN PARADE GLAIVE WITH DRAGON DECORATION CIRCA 1590:
The glaive is a slash-and-thrust weapon, very much like a wide saber, but with an approximate six-foot staff to increase its length and power. The name is a variant of the Latin “gladius” translating to “sword,” just like the Roman sword. Variants of the glaive date to as early as circa 1250 and were used until the first quarter of the 17th century. Early images are found in the Maciejowski Bible. Although it is a highly effective weapon, the glaive was never used in large numbers on the battlefield or in military formations like pikes and halberds. This example, however, was not a combat weapon but instead adopted by civic, parade, and/or ceremonial guards. Their use was limited to religious, court, parades, and other social functions. Length approximatel