Linstock

c. 1600–25

This specialized staff weapon was used primarily to ignite the charge in pieces of artillery. The two lateral projections ending in eagles' heads are actually clips designed to hold the smoldering matches that allowed the firer to stand a little further from the cannon. The short, leaf-shaped blade allowed the linstock to be used as a weapon if necessary.

Date

c. 1600–25

Medium

steel; octagonal wood haft covered with green velvet, brass studs

Culture

France, 17th century

Dimensions

Overall: 201 cm (79 1/8 in.); Blade: 25.2 cm (9 15/16 in.)

Credit

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Severance

Open-access artwork courtesy of Cleveland Museum of Art. Mooseium is not affiliated with or endorsed by this institution.