The Archaeology of Weapons - Arms and Armor from Prehistory to the Age of Chivalry, by Ewart Oakeshott.

- Hardcover
- Copyright 1960, B&N Reprint 1994
- 359 pages
- Line drawings, Lots of B/W photos
- Book Size: 6 1/4 x 9 1/4

I learned about this book several years ago while watching a documentary about artifact fraud and its impact to museums and auction houses. Twice this book was referred to as the "go-to" authority in putting certain weapons in historical context for authenticity.
No brainer - if world class collectors refer to it, I need it in my library as well. Does it help improve my collection? No. Does it grow me as a collector? Oh absolutely!

The Archaeology of Weapons: Arms and Armor from Prehistory to the Age of Chivalry is a comprehensive survey by Ewart Oakeshott that chronicles the evolution of European weapons from the Bronze Age through the medieval period. The book uses archaeological evidence, literary sources, and art to trace how weapons changed due to new materials and shifting demands of warfare and culture. It is particularly strong on medieval arms, detailing chivalry and classifying various sword types from the 11th to 15th centuries.

Key features:
• Time span: Covers approximately 30 centuries, beginning with the Bronze and Iron Ages and moving through the Roman Empire, the Viking Age, and into the Age of Chivalry.
• Evidence: Relies on archaeological evidence from discoveries in bogs, tombs, and excavations, supplemented by clues from literature like the Old Testament, Homer, and Norse sagas.
• Content focus: While covering a vast array of weapons and armor (swords, spears, shields, helmets, daggers, longbows, crossbows, and chainmail), swords are the central theme, with extensive sections on their history and classification.
• Chivalry: Dedicates significant attention to the Age of Chivalry, arguing that understanding this institution is crucial for appreciating the arms and armor of the period.
• Illustrations: Is profusely illustrated with line drawings and plates depicting various weapons and armor, which are noted for their clarity.
• Structure: The book is divided into four main sections: The Prehistoric Period, The Heroic Age, The Vikings, and The Age of Chivalry.