The Cleveland Museum of Art

Collection Online as of December 19, 2025

Pellet Crossbow for a Child

c. 1600–1650

Germany, early 17th Century

wood, bone inlay, steel
Overall: 44.3 cm (17 7/16 in.); Bow: 29.2 cm (11 1/2 in.); Butt: 5.2 cm (2 1/16 in.)
Gift of John L. Severance 1928.671
Location: 210A Armor Court

Description

This crossbow, made for the use of a small child, was designed to throw small stones or pellets. The bow string is an accurate replacement.
  • 1928
    American Art Association sale, American Art Galleries
    American Art Galleries (sale, November 1928)
  • Cleveland Museum of Art Children's Armor. The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH (organizer) (June 1, 2025-June 4, 2028).
    Armor Court Reinstallation. The Cleveland Museum of Art (organizer).
    The Cleveland Museum of Art (09/10/1998); "Armor Court Reinstallation"
  • {{cite web|title=Pellet Crossbow for a Child|url=false|author=|year=c. 1600–1650|access-date=19 December 2025|publisher=Cleveland Museum of Art}}

Source URL:

https://www.clevelandart.org/art/1928.671