Elmslie typology

The Elmslie typology is a system for classification and description of the single edged European bladed weapons of the late medieval and early baroque period, from around 1100 to 1550.

It includes swords which are from the Europeans Middle Ages (approximately 11th through 16th centuries) and currently breaks them down into five main types, which each have several subtypes.

Criteria for the typology were, in order of priority: That it should be simple enough for the basic system to be learnt and remembered without needing constant reference to the published source.

That it should be possible to apply both to hands-on analysis of archaeological objects, and to manuscript depictions, photographic observations and similar art sources, where exact measurement is impossible.

It has been suggested the reason for this decline was through changes in religious dogma, which made such weapons unpopular amongst followers of Western Christianity.

Additionally their cross section is that of a wedge, with a primary bevel running from the apex all the way to the spine of the blade, making them highly effective cutting weapons against textiles or un-armoured targets.

Subtype 1 c Characterized by having scalloped ends, and clipped backs,[9][10][11] these types of blades are most famous for appearing in the Maciejowski Bible.

This is carried along the top of the spine which allows the blade to be reinforced at this thrusting portion, and still have a thin cutting belly beneath it.

These are known from two surviving examples, one of which displays asymmetrical cross section, and is ‘slab sided’ showing a chisel edge on the cutting surfaces.

Further evidence of archaeological leatherworking in Dordrecht included remnants of scabbards for Type 2a falchions, and based on the geographic origins of manuscript depictions, it has been suggested that Type 2a falchions are mostly a regional style centered on northern France or Burgundian regions, and spreading out only a little to the British Isles, and Western Germany.

Subtype 3a The initial clip point provides a large degree of cutting power at the end of the blade while still allowing for a some thrusting ability at the tip.

Sometimes referred to as a ‘cat’s claw’ this type is a more gracile form than the preceding designs, which tended to either flare or remain wider across the length of the blade.

Much like the larger ‘messer’ style blades, these types are paired with hilts which have a ‘nagel’ or nail, which serves to protect the back of the hand, distinguishing them from simple large household/utility knives.