Description
This reproduction of a late Romano-British 5th Century Spatha, known as the Anglian-Feltwell Spatha, captures the form and function of swords common during the waning days of the Roman Empire. These spathae were carried by both Roman soldiers and various barbarian groups in the turbulent final century before the Western Roman Empire’s collapse. The blade is forged from well-tempered C60 high carbon steel, measuring 24″ in length, with a design that balances roughly 5″ forward of the guard. The distal taper and broad fuller running along the blade lighten its weight and improve maneuverability, making it surprisingly quick and responsive despite its broad profile.
The hilt is a composite of wood, brass plates, and a polished bone grip, reflecting the craftsmanship of Migration Period smiths who blended materials to create durable and functional hilts. The attention to detail in the construction honors the practical design principles of the era. The accompanying scabbard features a wooden core wrapped in quality leather and finished with brass fittings, providing both protection and a fitting aesthetic for the sword it houses.
Fun fact: The Anglian-Feltwell Sword was discovered in what is now Norfolk, England, buried alongside a warrior’s grave, suggesting it was both a weapon and a symbol of status during the 4th to 5th centuries.
