For examples of nearly identical form, see pgs. 54-59 of "A Deadly Art: European Crossbows, 1250-1850", which depicts three crossbows from the same time period, all attributed to Dresden. This example measures approximately 22" across the prod, and 27 - 1/2" from stirrup to butt. Prod feeds through front of tiller and is bound with cord, spaced with a more modern piece of wood. Chase decorated with inlaid scrimshawed bone with decorative scrollwork and dated "1739" just ahead of the knut. Balance of the stock decorated with decorative bone inserts scrimschawed en suite and laid in geometric patterns, with a shell motif above the cheek and a large eight pointed star at cheek. Set trigger mechanism as often found on crossbows of this type. CONDITION: Very good, especially considering 300 year age, with typical handling marks throughout. One stabilized break that rounds around the hole for the prod cord, well repaired. Some unravelling of cord, exercise caution. A few bone inlays appear replaced, and one missing at rear of stock. Prod possibly a period replacement. Trigger mechanism untested due to age. A good example of a dated German light crossbow of a known and desirable form.