Fechtschulen Scene 1560s!

[John_Clements]

Here is an image of what obstensibly appears to be an actual Fechtschule from the 1560s. It's from a rare text that has come into our hands. There's a range of activity and spectators and the scene contrats with the more idealized imaginary scenes in some manuals.

There are two figures with staffs and a Dussack vs. flail. Note what seems to be a breaking bench in the background with the two wrestlers. It's interesting that the center figures appear to be performing a cool halfsword move that ARMA Provo came up with about 2 years back.
Interesting.

JC

[Guest]

I find it interesting that there, to the left, is a drummer. I wonder what his duty was, perhaps to play during training for background? Or as a drummer was used in war to sound out commands.

Todd Sullivan
CNY ARMA SG Director

[John_Clements]

Yeah, you see this elsewhere, I speculated once on the old forum they might have practiced to a rythym or beat like in some other arts. I even consulted with a historical musician for insight into the tempo or cadence.

JC