2067) LUCERNE HAMMER OF SUPERB CONSTRUCTION CIRCA 1580 WITH WORKING LIFE HAFT:
Introduction: This is a superbly well-constructed Lucerne hammer of superior workmanship, complete with a working-life haft. Staff weapons with original shafts are quite rare since staff weapons in Europe were used as third-line weapons until the early 1900s, and most had their shafts replaced every 100 years to stay war-ready.
This one is twice as good as the ones you see on the internet auction houses that sell for more money.
Description: The example under discussion is of a very strong and heavy construction. It features a four-pronged head diverging slightly, a working-life haft, and a diamond-shaped terminal spike, with a fluke opposite the four-pronged head.
Condition: Very good, with some modest signs of wear.
Approximate length: 91.5 inches.
Provenance:
– An American collection.
–A Swiss staff weapon collector.
– Possibly from the Bern arsenal.
Comparable: See page 381 in my book or any arsenal/armory in Switzerland, especially in Lucerne.
Discussion: The Swiss were strong advocates of staff weapons in Renaissance Europe. The Lucerne hammer was the Swiss two-handed war hammer of the late 1500s and early 1600s. By circa 1600, it was referred to as the “murder axe.” The Lucerne hammer is similar to the “foot war hammer” of the 15th century and developed from it; however, it is significantly lighter, and the haft is longer (approximately six feet) and thinner than the earlier footman’s hammer. Usually, the shorter the spike, the earlier its construction.
The Swiss armory at Lucerne had an exceptionally large stockpile. In 1860, the Lucerne collector J. Meyer Bielmann adopted the name “Luzernerhammer,” which Auguste Demmin used in 1869 for his book “Guide des Amateurs d’Armes” and it spread among collectors.
Lucerne hammers, such as this one, were made in a production-line approach, just like swords. The hammerhead and langets were hand-forged by one craftsman. The haft was probably made at another location next to a river with the aid of a water-powered hammer. The hammer was probably assembled by the least talented armorer. The final step was an inspection by a master of the guild to ensure quality and maintain the reputation for excellence in manufacturing.
Conclusion: This lucerne hammer is of superb construction. When you enter a room and see it at a distance, it makes a statement and calls out to you. Staff weapons are very undervalued in the world of Arms and Armor. This is a superb example that should be welcomed in any collection or museum. This one is priced to sell quickly!
ACT-NOW! I promise you won’t be disappointed !!!*
All my items come with the following:
–Free shipping.
–10-day review period.
–Certificate of Authenticity.
– Free autographed copy of my book if you do not have one.
– In the event of an international shipment, we will help assign the lowest correct Customs tariff, so you pay as little as 5% or even nothing.
I believe you will be very pleased. ACT-NOW!!!*
