5th century Spatha with gold grip plus scabbard (Alamannic)

[Theodosius the Great]

Avete,

I found this specimen on wikipedia :



I'm curious about the slider on the scabbard.
How would you suppose the baldric runs through it ?

It looks like it uses a rope or lacing of some kind.
I've never seen this method of attachment to a belt or baldric.

BTW, this is the latest example of a spatha I've ever seen. I hope to find even later examples.

~Theo

[Theodosius the Great]

Hey, someone makes a replica of this model.

Stunning work.
It only costs 3,400 Euros ? :mrgreen:

Here's the direct link : http://www.templ.net/english/weapons-an ... ilt_spatha


~Theo

[LUCIUS ALFENUS AVITIANUS]

Hello,

That's the typical germanic method of V-VII centuries. Consist in two sliders (instead one) to subject a leather strap, probably crossed at the back.

See the reconstruction in the same web linked:

http://www.templ.net/pics-making/blucin ... 02king.jpg


There are 6 peltiform studs for help to subject the extrems of the sliders, and too for decoration.

The ball shaped item is a stone hanging from a cord, used only as amulet. Usually there are semiprecious stones (coral, almandine, cuarz, etc...)

I have made one reconstruction of that kind of swords, i have wore it at Archeon, but i don't have detailed pictures yet. It's at the right of that picture:

[Theodosius the Great]

Very interesting !

I didn't know Germanics had their own methods.

I used to think : a spatha is a spatha. Especially since the Eastern Empire adopted Germanic-style belts, Germanic / Gothic helmets, etc.. But now it sounds like regional differences persisted in Europe.

It's always a treat to see pictures of your group, Cesar.
I'd like to see them when they become available.

Thanks.

~ Theo

[Urselius]

Not the most practical material for a sword grip. A get a bit sweaty in battle and that sword's going to twist in the hand when its swung.

Possibly a good feature if you wanted to throw the sword at your enemy. :wink:

[Salvianus]

Nice look for the Late Antique period

[LUCIUS ALFENUS AVITIANUS]

Not the most practical material for a sword grip. A get a bit sweaty in battle and that sword's going to twist in the hand when its swung.

Possibly a good feature if you wanted to throw the sword at your enemy.

Yes. The gold hilted swords are mostly of chieftains, king and probably more for display rank than for battle use.