Crossbow with Spanning Lever
Unknown Artist
crossbow, ca. 1540–60; spanning lever, ca. 1525–75
Medium
Steel, wood (holly oak), staghorn, copper alloy, hemp, leather
Dimensions
crossbow L. 32 5/8 in. (82.9 cm); W. 21 1/2 in. (54.6 cm); Wt. 6 lb. (2,726 g). spanning lever L., extended 18 3/8 in. (46.6 cm); W. 2 5/8 in. (6.7 cm); Wt. 1 lb. 3 oz. (548 g)
Classification
Archery Equipment-Crossbows
Culture
Spanish, possibly Valencia or Toledo; lever possibly Madrid
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Archer M. Huntington, 1927
Accession Number
27.160.19a, b
Art Historical Context
This exquisite Crossbow with Spanning Lever, dating around 1540–60 with its lever from circa 1525–75, hails from Spain—likely Valencia or Toledo for the crossbow, and Madrid for the lever.ed during the Renaissance, when Spain's arms centers like Toledo were renowned for producing high-quality weaponry, this piece reflects the era's blend of military innovation and fine craftsmanship. Crossbows were vital in warfare and hunting, prized for their power and accuracy over long distances, especially after the widespread adoption of steel prods that required mechanical aids like the spanning lever t...