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Product description
Sancho IV of Castile, nicknamed "el Bravo," reigned as king of Castile, León and Galicia from 1284 until his death in 1295. After the death of his father, Alfonso X, Sancho took control of the kingdom, despite his father's wishes. He was crowned in Toledo, where he reigned until he died tragically. Shortly before his death, he appointed his wife, María de Molina, as regent for their young son, Ferdinand IV. Sancho died in 1295 and was buried in the Cathedral of Toledo, thus fulfilling his final wish. In 1947, his remains were found in a well-preserved state, dressed in a Franciscan habit and adorned with a silvered golden crown decorated with Roman cameos and sapphires. A sword was found beside him, with an overgrown grip, and an inscription on the blad, though only fragments have been preserved.
The sword, dating from the 13th century, is an exceptional example of medieval weaponry. It was in excellent condition when found and reflects the status of a Castilian monarch. The blade is finely polished, highlighting the craftsman's skill. The cross-guard has a classic design with slightly curved arms and a lobular knop, adorned with intricate ornamentation, including a possible Arabic inscription repeated in a seemingly random pattern. The decoration of the grip is consistent with the rest of the sword and reflects the symbols of the Kingdom of Castile and León, emphasizing royal descent. Given the size of the grip, it is believed that Sancho IV was a tall man, over two meters in height, suggesting that the sword, like the crown, may have been inherited from his father, as was customary for royalty at the time.
The pommel of the sword is expertly engraved and displays beautiful Arabic designs on the two circular sides, while the sides of the cones show the repeating motifs also seen on the cross-guard. This impressive weapon, now on display in the Tapestry Museum of the Cathedral of Toledo, offers a glimpse into the luxurious equipment of Sancho IV, along with his crown and cushion, and preserves the legacy of a remarkable monarch.
