French ? Crossbow , makers stamp on bow , rooster and stars ?? , model , dating ??

[fernando]

Originally Posted by Philip

... Re the "target" crossbow in the exhibit catalog you posted -- I wonder what sort of targets the maker had in mind. That windlass is worthy of a battle weapon substantial enough to knock a knight off his horse...

Filipe, i did not dare judging on the crossbow typology, as would be a 'shoe maker trying to play the rabecão (you know the saying ?). However going back to my comprehensive catalog (rather a book) i stood with no doubt that the author knows what he is talking about. The so called (but not proven) English windlass, despite being a impressive apparatus, was undoubtedly used in target practice. Other auxiliary parts, as early as in this period, would complement these precision bows, like palm rests and, imagine, set triggers.


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