c. 1460–70
Wood (walnut?) inlaid with bone; horn; iron and steel; composite bow (horn and parchment)
Overall: 87 cm (34 1/4 in.); Bow: 74.5 cm (29 5/16 in.); Butt: 4.2 cm (1 5/8 in.)
Weight: 3.82 kg (8.42 lbs.)
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Severance 1916.1725
In every army in Europe crossbowmen were considered an elite corps, and as such occupied the central position in battle formations.
The cranequin, or winding device sitting on top of the crossbow, made it easier to span for reloading. With a full quiver, a container for bolts and arrows, a hunter could bring home plenty of meat.
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