Leather Sheath for Spearhead
17th-18th century
Description
The spearhead is made of a single piece of steel. The base that would have connected to the haft is fluted into ten segments. The base of the blade is lobed on either side with a spade-like embossed shape in the center, with two holes on both sides. The spade-like shape terminates into a trefoil shape. There is a high medial rib that runs the length of the blade. Two fullers flank the medial rib, but only run down a third of the blade. On one side, on the right, is an inscription that has been pricked into the steel. The blade comes to a fine point. The profile of the blade, particularly toward the base, is diamond in shape. The sheath is made of wood and covered in black leather. The leather has been treated to imitate ray skin. This is done by laying the leather over seeds and pounding it to create that embossed effect.
Dimensions
49.75 cm (19 9/16 in.)
Provenance
Arrived at the Harvard Art Museums on January 29, 1969. Stuart Cary Welch, Jr., Warner, New Hampshire (by 1989-2008), by inheritance; to Edith I. Welch, Warner, New Hampshire (2008-2011), gift; to Harvard Art Museums 2011.
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