Objekt 2113
Symbol of sovereignty
Description
A sword not only served to defend or to kill. The Vogteischwert was a symbol
of justice and rightful sovereignty. Jurisdiction over any place always meant
sovereignty as well. Thus it was a smart move by King Rudolf I of Habsburg
to appoint a high judge in Basel as imperial governor. He thereby put the
town under direct royal command. In 1386, Basel acquired this sword from
the King to attain full independence.
Object description
Basler Vogteischwert
c. 1274, hilt 16th century
steel
old inventory
Inv.1870.529.