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Crossbow of Elector Augustus I of Saxony
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Free to download, adapt and use — no permission needed.
About this work
This crossbow was a hunting weapon for Prince Elector Augustus I, a member of the ruling elite in the Holy Roman Empire. Augustus, powerful and wealthy, had even the most practical instruments ornately decorated, including this crossbow and its cranequin, or winding device.
Cleveland Museum of Art’s own descriptionCredit lineCrossbow of Elector Augustus I of Saxony, c. 1553–73. Germany, Saxony, 16th century. Wood (walnut?), bone veneers, flax cord, steel (etched, traces of gilding). woolen pompoms, stock decorated wih inlaid trophies of arms; overall: 58.5 cm (23 1/16 in.); bow: 58.5 cm (23 1/16 in.); butt: 5.7 cm (2 1/4 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Severance, 1916.1723.a
