A FINE AND RARE SARACENIC FARIS WAR HAMMER

Ayyubid Era, the finely-wrought steel head with distinctive hammer and canted peen terminating in a flattened bead, with elaborately modeled and decorated bronze grip finial. On its acrylic display haft with copper band. Late 12th century. The Ayyubid Dynasty, founded by Salah-ad-Din Yusuf ibn Ayyub, commonly known as Saladin, is known for his chivalrous character during the Third Crusade (1189-1192) against Richard the Lionheart of England, Philip II of France and Frederick Barbarossa, Holy Roman Emperor. Saladin?s faris (armored cavalry) made particular use of such war hammers. Latter 12th century. As found. Overall length 60cm. Condition V