The consignor indicated this crossbow is from what is now Germany in the 16th century, and it shares characteristics with documented crossbows from the region and era. As crossbows became more often sporting items of wealthier men as they were increasingly replaced on the battlefields with firearms, some could be quite ornate like this example. It is about 22 inches long and has a 20 1/4 inch wide steel prod with blue and white tufts, scroll and floral patterns engraved on the panels of the stock, textured "scale" type patterns on the wood, an iron nut, adjustable iron sight, and a gilt cord tied to cord stirrup at the front.

Fine with mild overall wear, mix of distinct and worn engraving on the panels, some cracks in the wood, a splice on the cheek, a long brass "staple" on top near the butt, mild oxidation on the prod, and generally mild overall wear. 40% of the original gilt remains on the trigger guard. Not mechanically tested.