One more instance of the stylized trefoil decoration, found on another cranequin datable to ca. 1535, and in a Bavarian private collection:
engraved on the forward section of the ratched bar, and reduced to three dots struck to form a triangle.
This cranequin, too, is struck with the Nuremberg workshop mark of the 'Master of the crossed arrows'.
As stated above, the ornament on this item is a sample of the most simplified variant of a bunch of grapes, which seems to have originated as a stylistic decorative element in the late 15th or early 16th century - and primarily employed on all kinds ironworks including weapons and armor.
Have fun studying,
and best,
Michael Trömner
Last edited by Matchlock; 24th June 2014 at 04:05 AM.
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