A bearing sword is a type of oversized, unwieldy ceremonial sword usually carried by a squire or servant during parades to demonstrate the wealth and status of its owner. [1] Often held upright and lavishly decorated, these swords were not intended for combat or practical use. [2] Carried by royal bodyguards as a display of power, bearing swords were used throughout Europe from at least as early as the medieval period and as late as the 18th century. [3] [4]
References
- ^ "Bearing sword | Define Bearing sword at Dictionary.com". dictionary.com. Retrieved 4 September 2017.
- ^ "Three Swords from the Higgins Museum". myArmoury.com. Retrieved 4 September 2017.
- ^ "Bearing Sword : Search the Higgins Collection". higgins-collection.org. Retrieved 4 September 2017.
- ^ "Objects". Royal Armouries. Retrieved 4 September 2017.[ permanent dead link]
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