MUNICH – Hermann Historica‘s May 27 auction celebrates the creations of early armorers and blacksmiths. Their impressive craftsmanship is clearly evident in the 322 lots, with a range of medieval and early modern objects from arsenals and royal armories. Absentee and Internet live bidding will be available through LiveAuctioneers.
Invariably walking the tightrope between optimum mobility and optimum protection, the most outstanding craftsmen of their time created objects beyond compare. An outstanding example of such in the May 27 sale is a black and white half armor for a man-at-arms from South Germany, complete with the matching burgonet, estimated at €24,000-€48,000. Dating from 1560, every last component in this set of exceptionally decorative and homogenous armor is original. This association can be clearly seen in the identical chased decor of finely inset decorative lines and surrounding band of meander ornament in black and white, popularly known as “running dog.”
No less ornate, and requiring the skill of an excellent bladesmith to produce, are the scores of edged weapons on offer. An early medieval sword appears to be the prototype of a Gothic sword, commanding attention with its striking, gold-inlaid inscription and a leaf ornament, arranged around a stylized eagle. This fabulous, remarkably rare piece is estimated at €12,000-€24,000. Carrying the same estimate is an imposing Brunswick two-hand sword from the late 16th century that bears comparison with the finest arms. Its guards and finger rests are wrought in the shapes of birds, and its guard rings are embellished with lion’s heads.
Undoubtedly of courtly provenance, a distinguished, silver damascened sword is estimated at €35,000-€70,000. This extraordinary edged weapon, sporting a blade forged in Solingen circa 1610, features almost every conceivable decorative technique. The quillons is embellished with openwork, inlaid in silver and partially gilt, while the grip is wound with silver wire, and the pommel has six fullers, lavishly inlaid in silver, with gilt fullers.
Shields, some of which are highly ostentatious, provided the final flourish to the equipment and defenses of the combatants. One such is a Milanese gold-inlaid roundel of breathtaking aesthetic appeal and with impressive workmanship that probably dates from the second half of the 17th century. Adorned with antique-style warriors in combat, the iron shield is estimated at €20,000-€40,000.
Also on offer is an exceptionally opulent Renaissance crossbow, which will not disappoint. Entirely veneered in bone and covered in hunting motifs, it is estimated at €12,000-€24,000. Buyers will also revel in the wide selection of sumptuous oriental weapons. One highlight, an 18th century pair of Algerian fire-gilt spurs set with corals, is an undisputed piece de resistance among the African weapons. It is estimated at €2,800-€5,600.
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The current rate of exchange between the Euro and the U.S. dollar is 1 = $1.20.
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