12th-13th Century Jinete Swords?

[Reventlov]

Swords with elaborately curled guards often appear in Spanish art, more often with discoid pommels, but lobed forms appear too, as in the effigy of Prince Felipe of Castle (d. 1274). Usually the curvature is towards the blade, but the reverse is also seen, as in the Alluye effigy.



While the style may be originally Andalusian, similar swords are shown used by both Christians and Muslims, even alternately appearing in either the hands of St. James the Moorslayer or his foes.



In addition to the swords from Seville and Alava shared already, at least one more "early jineta"-type sword, was found near the Templar church in Tomar, Portugal. Regarding the Alava sword, a researcher has recently shared his preliminary findings which suggest the blade is in fact the first known example of an VLFBERHT inscription from Spain. His presentation is available on Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9qLYgeyTHQ



- Mark