Medieval Iron Anti-Cavalry Caltrop Group

13TH-15TH CENTURY A.D.

3 3/8 - 3 3/4 in. (439 grams total, 88-95 mm).

Comprising eight caltrops, hand-forged with square-section spikes. [8, No Reserve]

Provenance

Acquired 1971-1972.
From the collection of the vendor's father.
Property of a London, UK, collector.

Literature

Cf. Žákovský, P., ‘Caltrop. Contribution to the knowledge of one neglected weapon (in Bohemian language)’ in Studia Minora Facultatis Philosophicae Universitatis Brunensis, M 12-13, 2007-2008, pp.115-132, fig.9, no.4 (type 3 of Žákovský classification).

Footnotes

Caltrops were scattered on battlefields in an effort to stop or slow advancing enemy cavalry or foot soldiers; regardless of how a caltrop lands, one spike is always facing upwards. In 1082, Emperor Alexios Komnenos used caltrops against the Norman cavalry in the Balkans but the Normans avoided them by flanking the Roman line.

CONDITION

VETTING:

TimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process

AUCTIONS:

TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.

Live Auction

LOT 1805