1300-1400 AD. Medieval European. Iron war hammer with slightly curved, square face, long throat and neck, high, rectangular head with circular projections and curving claw on the reverse. The throat, neck and claw are covered in intricate incised decoration. A war hammer was a long-handled weapon used by foot-soldiers, often in the defence of fortified walls and in action against mounted men-at-arms. They were intended to deliver blunt-force strikes against armoured opponents, where bladed weapons would only deliver glancing blows. Excellent condition; on a custom-made stand. Size: L:115mm / W:220mm ; 420g; Provenance: Important London collection of Ancient art; formed in 1970s then passed by descent