Exceptional Italian Lance, Probably Late 15th C

 

 

 

 

   

 

This fine quality lance is somewhat of an enigma. It’s form is Italian of the late 15th C and the chiseling is in an Italian style. However, I have never seen anything like it, nor have any of the experts I have shown it to at major museums around the world. It has been examined by several experts and it is genuine hand work from not later than the 17th C. The chiseling on the obverse is in high relief and depicts a vertical battle scene with armoured soldiers scaling castle walls. At the top is a soldier in early Roman style armour. The chiseling is fire gilt silver on a darkened background, a dangerous method using mercury which was discontinued in the 17th C. The reverse is engraved with a detailed battle scene depicting armoured soldiers in close combat. There is a tiny maker’s mark on the reverse. The chiseled ferrule depicts a hand holding a spear bearing a mask, a castle in a shield, and topped with a crown. The reverse bears a cross in a circle and crossed ribbons with an illegible signature or motto. Mounted on a period octagonal shaft, possibly the original, with ancient textile covering, two period tassels, and brass-headed nails. Some of the gilding is worn and there are a few small rust-throughs on the ferrule, otherwise it is in incredible original condition for its age. The high quality of this spear indicates it was undoubtedly made for the guard of a very high ranking official. It has been suggested that this could be from the Papal Guard at the Vatican, but I cannot verify this. Certainly a very important and rare piece. Several sparsely decorated lances of similar form, all dating between 1480 and 1500, are depicted in “Armi Bianche Italiane” , by Boccia and Coelho.
PS630 $12,500

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