1519) RARE  DECORATED SWISS WAR POLL AXE, CIRCA 1650 WITH TWO MAKERS MARKS :

Introduction:  Probably made in Bern. A poll axe is one of the most sought-after staff weapons in the collectors market.  The poll axe developed from the broadaxe circa 1400. The term “poll axe” has been found in English literature since the early 1400s. In the 17th century, it changed to “pole-axe.” The belief was that the poll axe was an axe on a pole. Actually, “poll” is an Old English* word for head. In the 1400s and the early 1500s, the term did apply correctly to a type of axe used both in tournaments (lists) and the infantry (warfare). In general, as an instrument of war, the axe after 1650 was no longer in vogue.

Description: Constructed with a solid massive quadrilateral (four-sided) spike with the tip tapering to flat at the base, containing four straps creating a square socket at the top; one-piece forged crescent-shaped blade with wide triangular-shaped fluke, axe, haft, and spike secured by a transverse pyramidal bolt and nut, on both sides with tip, with an old working life wooden haft with minor worm damage. Decorated with chiseled vines and two makers marks. Length: 203.5 cm.

Discussion: The term ‚poll ax‚ has been found in English literature since the early 1400s. In the 17th century, it changed to pole-ax. The belief was that the poll ax was an ax on a pole. Actually, poll is an Old English* word for head. In the 1400s and the early 1500s, the term did apply correctly to a type of ax used both in tournaments (lists) and the infantry (warfare). In general, as an instrument of war, the ax after 1650 was no longer in vogue. Many of these axes are preserved at the Landes Museum in Zurich, which absorbed the city arsenal.

 Comparables: Wegeli, Polearms, Historical Museum Bern, 1939, p.41, no.1361, plate 6, p.98, no.1553, plate 14.

Provenance: From a German Nobles armory. Deaccessioned by his heirs.

Conclusion:  This is only the second Swiss war pollax of this type I have had in 35 years. This is a rare collectible that is highly sought after. This one is decorated, in great condition, with a superb provenance, and priced below$4,500 with free shipping. What are you waiting for-act now!!!*