Cleveland Museum of Art

Crossbow

Date: c. 1460–70
Medium: wood (walnut?) inlaid with bone; horn; iron and steel; composite bow (horn and parchment)
Culture: Germany
Department: Medieval Art
Institution: Cleveland Museum of Art

The cranequin, or winding device sitting on top of the crossbow, made it easier to span for reloading. With a full quiver, a container for bolts and arrows, a hunter could bring home plenty of meat. In every army in Europe crossbowmen were considered an elite corps, and as such occupied the central position in battle formations.

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