Introduction: This typology of horseman’s hammer was the most popular from 1550 to 1600 in Western Europe. What sets this one apart is the exceptional decoration. Undoubtedly, the original owner of this war hammer was both wealthy and devout.

Description: Constructed of steel and decorated with beveling on most of its surfaces except for the slightly downward turned fluke and alternating spaces on the haft. At the base of the haft, each of the four sides is decorated with an image of one of the four evangelist authors of the four canonical gospels of the New Testament (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John). The hammerhead swells from the tip to its  face, with the steel octagonal tapering haft traversing through the center of the hammer to a circular point, an Oakeshott Type Style B1. Mushroom/Tea Cosy pommel with pin/finial, wire grip with Turks Heads.

Length: 23.5 inches.

Discussion: Like the mace, the war hammer under discussion is constructed of all steel. However, it is not as heavy as a mace. A great example of this typology of hammer is in a portrait of Prince Elector Moritz of Saxony with a horseman’s hammer by Lucas Cranach the Younger, circa 1580.

The war hammer consisted of a handle (usually made of wood), more accurately referred to as a haft, with a heavy metal head. Not all hammer hafts were made of wood. This variant of the horseman’s hammer is made of all metal; it was used for smashing armor, but with its longer fluke, also for dismounting a knight from his horse.

The length of a hammer’s fluke is a reasonably good indicator to estimate a Western European hammer’s age. The war hammer typically included a hammerhead and a curved fluke on the opposite side. Many war hammers were topped with a spike. In addition, the war hammer could be used against mounted cavalry by injuring the horses and/or, as previously mentioned, dismounting the riders with the fluke. War hammers were also used in many types of polearms, including the Lucerne Hammer and Bec de Corbin. Hammers were also used in tournaments. By the 16th century, steel had become the standard material for short war hammers.

Comparable: See page 377 in my book.

Conclusion: An exceptionally rare typology of war hammer any museum would love to display. This is not only a Renaissance instrument of war and destruction but also a Renaissance work of art.  Highly ornate hammers, such as this one, are seldom available in the collectors’ market. If you’ve ever wanted one, now is the time to act!!!*