|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
THE BARBARIAN SWORD During the Dark Ages nomadic bands of warriors stormed across Europe and constantly engaged in battle with local tribes. In a perpetual conquest for land and territory, the Mongols, Picts and Celts were at war for centuries. The Roman Legions, caught up in this thunderous power struggle, attempted to preserve their empire but after a few skirmishes with these barbarian forces, decided to cede parts of their kingdom.
Barbarian swords were crude in design. Primarily crafted of ores and irons they not only served the function as an excellent slashing and cleaving weapon but its appearance was also intended to force an enemy into submission by fear. Perhaps one of the most primitive experiments in psychological warfare. The hilts, pommels and cross-guards were lavishly constructed and often were inlaid with precious metals and stones. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
THE SCIMITAR A brutal weapon by fashion, the Scimitar was mainly intended as an oversized cleaver. The preferred weapon of the Moors and Saracens, it achieved its popularity during the Crusades as it proved a formidable tool in slashing through most types of armor.
The weapon has its origins in India, Turkey and Jerusalem where the style has been in use since the dawn of time. Its wide blade offers superb balance to its user and its extended handle gives added reach and distance. The pommels and hilts were often made from ivory or bone and were often wrapped in leather, silk or cloth. |
|
|
|
|