Circa 1100-1300 AD. An iron sword with long, broad tapering blade, which terminates in a point, rectangular single-handle grip, with nicely elaborately tapered pommel with convex edges. Excellent condition. Mounted on a custom-made display stand. For similar see The Metropolitan Museum of Fine Art. Accession no. 07.53.2 The Crusades (1096-1272 AD) were a series of significant military actions in the Near East fought between the Christian and Saracen armies with the original goal of capturing Jerusalem. The crusades led to the formation of important military orders such as the Knights Templar, Knights Hospitaller and Teutonic Knights. Richard the Lionheart was the most famous of the crusading kings. Size: L:890mm / W:155mm ; 900g. Provenance: Acquired on the Swiss art market in the early 20th century; property of a London gentleman.