How decorative do crossguards get in historic swords?

[Andy Lee Chaisiri]

For example, this is a fictional sword in an upcoming video game:



I've seen cross guards like that in other fictional depictions, but does it have a historic basis?

[Kevin Reicks]

I've seen cross guards like that in other fictional depictions, but does it have a historic basis?

A cross that big and that broad? Nope. There were different shapes, some very plane bars and some looked like bow ties which could have inspired that pic. They could still get decorative with etching/artwork on them. That happened more in the late dark ages/Viking period. Sometimes animal heads might be carved on the ends. A lot of swords with decorative crosses were more for ceremony then they were for fighting. There is an entire chapter on medieval/early-mid Renaissance crosses in the book, "The Sword in the Age of Chivalry" by Ewart Oakeshott.

One little thing that I see on fantasy swords/fantasy sword drawings from time to time that irk me. That is a cross where both sides are bending toward the hilt/hand. Technically, turned "up" as crosses are viewed with the blade down with the pommel at the top. Possible nitpicking, but we're talking about history/reality. Anyway Never happened and for good reason, it would hinder maneuverability and if it was all the cross the sword had, it could deflect the opponent right down in to you. This is not to be confused with the single side turned downward that starts to happen to some swords (particularly single edged) in the Renaissance, but when the entire cross is bent toward the hand. Thats probably the biggest artistic license I've seen some sword cross designs I have noticed.

Hope I was able to give helpful info.

[Andy Lee Chaisiri]

Thanks, I'll have to check that book out!

[LafayetteCCurtis]

The cross there is far too broad and oddly-shaped compared to historical examples. It's not very ornate compared to some of the most extreme examples in historical ornamentation, though. Have a look at this thread:

http://www.myarmoury.com/talk/viewtopic.php?t=2574