16th century Spanish military swordsmanship

[David Mastro]

What do we know about the style of esgrima used by the rodeleros (rondeliers; targetiers) that early 16th century Spain was so famous for? Was their espada y rodela similar to the Bolognese spada e rotella? Are there any period treatises which cover this military form of swordsmanship, as opposed to the civilian destreza of Carranza and his followers?

Any info/input would be appreciated.

Peace,

David

[steve hick]

David, there is the anonymous Tratado that is in El Escorial, which is dated ca 1500. It covers sword and and a number of shield types. Our suspicion is that is either by Pietro Monte or are notes on the Collectanea by someone else "who had spent many years in Italy".

There may be more as well, as it appears there is more in Perpignan than the two documents that Henry transcribed in Revue Archaelogique in the 19th century. I believe the French and Spanish WMA both are intending to visit the city achives there.

[David Mastro]

Great news--thanks, Steve!