Do Left-Handers Form a Consistent Minority Throughout History?And if so, why? These intriguing questions lie at the heart of a new research project currently being initiated by Dr. Tim Simon, a philosopher and neurobiologist from the University of Trient. The study will specifically, though not exclusively, explore the relevance of left-handedness in antagonistic and duelling contexts, where it is often considered an advantage. Dr. Simon reached out to me because of my research into the ergonomics of historical sword grips and the insights I have gained. He was particularly excited about the possibility of determining whether a sword was made for left- or right-handed use. He suggested that my research could provide the key to unlocking the ratio of left-handers in historical—and even prehistoric—combat contexts. While there are numerous studies and statistics for modern combat sports, there is currently very little data available for pre-industrial eras. In a preliminary survey, I examined 65 single-handed swords, primarily dating from the 9th to the 14th century. Of these, 47 were optimised for right-handers and 12 for left-handed use, indicating a left-handed sword-fighter ratio of 20.33%. This aligns with the proportion of left-handers among top performers in many modern sports—such as table tennis, cricket, baseball, and combat sports—even though left-handers make up only about 10% of the general population. Interestingly, the remaining six swords in the survey could be comfortably wielded by both right- and left-handers. However, even these swords exhibit subtle ergonomic fine-tuning. Furthermore, they are of different types than those optimised for specific handedness. Notably, none of these six swords displays the characteristic offset of the pommel typical of handedness adaptation, as it is not required. Dr. Alfred Geibig considers this a confirmation of my hypothesis that such offsets are indeed deliberate deviations from symmetry to enhance ergonomics. I sincerely hope this project secures appropriate funding, as it is a subject I find deeply fascinating. New Exciting Addition to My Sword ShopI’ve just added a 300 dpi colour version of my full-size illustration, complete with information and statistics, of a mighty Great War Sword from Lübeck to my shop on Patreon. This elegant early 14th-century two-handed sword is one of three such swords in the collection of the Sankt Annen Museum, all featuring inlaid crosses of different designs at their respective points of balance. It is featured in the 2015 Solingen exhibition catalogue, The Sword — Form and Thought, on pages 96–97.
No better way to enjoy the season. Warm regards, So, that's it for today. Take care, and keep your blade well-honed. If you enjoyed this newsletter, please recommend it to your friends. They can sign up here or on my website. Or simply forward them this email. Improve your skills with our sword-and-buckler online course. Refine your skills with our course Counterbound! If you wish to read more, find hundreds of related posts on my Patreon. Special thanks to all my loyal supporters on Patreon – you keep me going! And if you are not a patron yet, you are most welcome to join. If you feel like dropping a coin into my tip jar, you can do so here. Thank you for your time and your interest. Yours, Roland You are receiving this newsletter because you have signed up for it, or because you have previously expressed your interest in my work and events. If you prefer to not receive further emails, you can unsubscribe below. |
I am Roland Warzecha, a professional illustrator – and a swordsman. Hence the name ‘Dimicator’ which is a Latin term meaning sword fighter. I present to you cutting-edge research into historical martial arts, and Viking & high medieval sword & shield fighting in particular. I am co-operating with museums, fellow martial artists and scholars worldwide. Renowned expert for historical arms, Dr Alfred Geibig, says: “The careful reconstruction of historical swordsmanship, impressively demonstrated by Mr. Warzecha, is a valuable supplement to archaeological insights, and clearly proves the efficiency of European swords and the sophistication of the associated historical fighting arts.” To get regular up-dates on the archaeology and history of sword & shield and how they were used, sign up for my newsletter! I would be delighted if you would join my quest.
A Famous Viking Age Sword Made for a Left-Hander My friend Alban's favourite sword Hello fellow sword and history enthusiasts, It’s not often that you get to see this exceptionally well-preserved sword outside the British Museum. With its wide fuller inscribed LEUTLRIT and an Anglo-Danish hilt adorned with geometric inlays, it is an outstanding piece. Note the slightly off-centre and tilted montage of the pommel But what I find most intriguing are the subtle asymmetries in the hilt...
The Fencing Bridegroom Swordsmen's distinguished summer fashion Hello sword-and-buckler enthusiasts and fashion victims, My fellow buckler fighter and researcher Cornelius Berthold was married this past weekend. The occasion provided a splendid opportunity for some early-morning fencing before breakfast—and, notably, for swordplay in suits. The latter was suggested by photographer Jonas Radtke, and I’m very much looking forward to seeing the resulting images. There can be only one! In the...
Are We But Brutal Primates? Chimps make war, bonobos make love. What about us? (My illustration) Hello fellow history enthusiasts, I suspect many of you share my feeling that we are living through particularly unusual and turbulent times. While I generally make a conscious effort to maintain a positive outlook and focus on the good, I must admit this has grown increasingly difficult in recent years. Stupidity, ignorance and brutality seem all too prominent among our species at present....