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The Vigil

Type X


For aficionados of the European sword, this weapon is instantly recognizable. The design is the result of a hands-on study of a famous and much admired sword in a world renown collection.

To hold the original sword in one's hand is awe inspiring: it is a living testimony to the skill of the master who made it. Even though the Vigil is extremely close in all its measurements and proportions, some small details has been intentionally changed or left out. This is to honor the wishes of those responsible for the collection in which it presently resides. It does share all dynamic properties as well as overall character in line, shape and proportion with its awesome predecessor.

Grasping the hilt of this sword evokes a feeling of calm and attentiveness: the serenity of a knight at his vigil. It is a manifestation of competent power, serious intent and exquisite balance. It is wonderfully ready in the hand, taking little effort to accelerate, striking with force and precision.

This is one of those blades that shine across the centuries, rating among the absolute best swords from the high middle ages that are still in existence today. Its original maker(s) and owner(s) are unknown to us, and yet we are allowed a rare insight into the reality of their mindset and competence, merely by grasping the hilt and savouring the lines of the blade, appreciating its confident presence. A fine example of high mastery of the craft, both in skill of hands and materials, but perhaps most in awareness and understanding of the idea of the sword.

Its dating has been debated: first half of the 13th C is perhaps a reasonable estimate. Oakeshott believed it to be older, dating back to the first half of the 12th C, while others prefer to date it to the early 14th C.

The pommel is a classic deep type I. It is ever so slightly oval as if compressed during the forging of the hollow inside. To allow for both the correct shape and size, the pommel is made slightly hollow, just like the original.

The guard is of style 2: gently flaring ends of round section that gradually transitions to the rounded rectangular mid section. This is an unusually elegant and well proportioned version of this popular type of guard.

Oakeshott classified the blade as a type X. With its double fuller, it is not a common or typical example of the group, however. In fact, in many ways this sword is unique. The lines and curves of the blade draw the eye, and offer no natural place to rest. This lends a very dynamic and powerful visual presence to the weapon.

The intention of the Vigil is to offer students and enthusiasts of the traditional European sword an opportunity to enjoy the full richness of a singular and outstanding sword. The ambition has been to channel as much as possible of the subtle beauty and uncompromising functionality of the original sword into the design. The final result is a sword that builds on a contemporary sword smith´s impressions and personal notes, but credit shall be given to the master who forged the original centuries ago.

The standard grip on the Vigil is a spiral cord wrap under leather. The Vigil is also offered with a diamond strap overwrap similar to the Chevalier grip for an additional $200.


Specifications
Overall length: 37.9 (96 cm)
Blade length: 32" (81 cm)
Blade width: 2.37" (6 cm)
CoB: 4.33" (11 cm)
CoP: 22" (56.8 cm)
Weight: 2 lbs 8 oz (1.14 Kg)
This sword is offered in a limited edition of 1000 swords worldwide

$1,210.00







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