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Crossbow of Matthias Corvinus, King of Hungary (reigned 1458–1490)

dated 1489
Not on view
This crossbow is one of the earliest surviving dated examples to include heraldry in its decoration. It was made for Matthias Corvinus (1443–1490), king of Hungary and Bohemia, whose personal coat of arms and the arms of his kingdom are visible. In addition to its rich ornament, the crossbow is remarkable for its sophisticated firing mechanism.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Crossbow of Matthias Corvinus, King of Hungary (reigned 1458–1490)
  • Date: dated 1489
  • Geography: possibly Vienna
  • Culture: Central or Eastern European, possibly Vienna
  • Medium: Wood, horn, animal sinew, staghorn, birch bark, iron alloy
  • Dimensions: L. 29 in. (73.7 cm); W. 24 in. (60.9 cm); Wt. 5 lb. 1/2 oz. (2284 g)
  • Classification: Archery Equipment-Crossbows
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1925
  • Object Number: 25.42
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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