[Alexander Hinman]

In looking through examples of icons, I came across a very strange pommel, one which appears a few times.

It is shaped like a three-leafed clover, and is similar to the type D except the lobes are much more even and round. What is even more peculiar is that there are at least two examples of this pommel in icons from the late 14th/early 15th century, and one from a 14th c. manuscript.

I was wondering if anyone had seen any actual examples of this pommel, of if it is one of those anomalies of Orthodox icons (Like the ubiquitous scale armour skirts). I was also wondering why this apparently antiquated style reappeared.

Any help is appreciated.

St. Demetrius of Thessalonika. Pskov. 15th C

[Nathan Robinson]

I'm sure you're aware of the "four-leaf clover" or floral type of pommel that Oakeshott calls The Type Q. This is similar in character to the first painting you show.


This pommel is found in many examples dating circa 1280-1325, but I'm unaware of any surviving swords with it.

I, like you, am curious to know more of the "three-leaf" version.

[Nathan Robinson]

[Thomas McDonald]

David McElrea posted this photo of a two handed claymore he shot at The British Museum, below the claymore is a dagger that features that clover styled pommel. Pic is from this thread here.

Mac

[Brad Harada]

Del Tin manufactures a sword with that particular pommel type (It was once carried by MLR many ages ago, if memory serves with a bronze pommel instead of the current mild steel one offered by Del Tin) model 5130 in their catalog.

[Nathan Robinson]

I fear that I've derailed this topic from the discussion of the "three-leaf clover" pommel on which Alexander seeks some information. My response with the Oakeshott Type Q "four-leaf" variant was to show a similarity only.

[Bob Burns]

Actually Nathan, I'd like to thank you because once again I have learned something from you!

Sincerely,

Bob