Author: Mike Loades
Publisher: Casemate Publishing, May 2011
Binding: Hardcover
ISBN: 1-84884-133-7
Synopsis
This magnificent book tells the evolution of swords, how they were made, how they were used, & the people that used them. Each is selected is linked to a individual, telling their story. The chapters on these specific swords & swordsmen are alternated with more general chapters on the changing technical developments & fashions in swords & their use. 200 Color & 120 B&W photos & illus.; 7x10 inches, 512 pgs.
More Information
This magnificent book tells the story of the evolution of swords, how they were made, how they were used, & the people that used them. It doesn't claim to give comprehensive coverage but instead takes certain surviving examples as landmarks on a fascinating journey through the history of swords. Each is selected because it can be linked to a specific individual, thus telling their story too & giving a human interest. So the journey starts with the sword of Tutankhamun & ends with the swords of J E B Stuart & George Custer. Along the way we take in Henry V, Cromwell & Uesugi Kenshin, & there is the most detailed discussion you'll find anywhere of all of George Washington's swords. The chapters on these specific swords & swordsmen are alternated with more general chapters on the changing technical developments & fashions in swords & their use.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Mike Loades has been handling swords most of his life, as a fight arranger, stuntman & historical weapons expert for TV & stage. He considers the sword as a functional weapon, work of art, fashion statement & cultural icon. As much as his profound knowledge of the subject, it is his lifelong passion for swords that comes through on every page. His fascinating text is supported by a lavish wealth of images, many previously unpublished & taken specifically for this book.