Cleveland Museum of Art

Cranequin with Arms of Elector Augustus I of Saxony

Date: c. 1553–73
Medium: steel; etched, chased and gilded
Culture: Germany, Saxony, 16th century
Department: Medieval Art
Institution: Cleveland Museum of Art

This winder or cranequin was for Prince Elector Augustus I, a member of the ruling elite in the Holy Roman Empire. Augustus, powerful and wealthy, had even the most practical instruments ornately decorated, including this cranequin. Augustus was a marksman who took part in crossbow competitions. He had a large collection and often gave them to friends.

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