The Philippe IV Sword is based on a remarkable surviving 14th century knightly sword, classified by renowned sword historian Ewart Oakeshott as a Type XIV. Dated to approximately 1300–1350, the original combines the compact, strongly tapering blade characteristic of the type with an unusually rich hilt, suggesting a sword made for a person of considerable status.
Etched upon the blade are the Latin words “NULLA DE VIRTUTIBUS TUIS MAJOR CLEMENTIA EST,” translated by Oakeshott as “Nothing of your virtues is greater than clemency.” Together with its elaborate gold-plated hilt, the inscription gives this medieval sword a distinctly ceremonial and prestigious character.
The Mysterious Sword of Philippe IV
The original sword is held by the Musée de l’Armée in Paris and was formerly part of the Pauilhac collection. Oakeshott recorded its find-place as unknown, but suggested that it may have come from Chartres Cathedral. Remarkably, much of the sword survived in exceptionally fine condition, including its ancient leather grip covering.
Its connection to Philippe IV of France, “Philippe le Bel”, is an intriguing historical attribution rather than a certainty. Oakeshott noted that Philippe IV is known to have deposited one of his swords, together with his armour, at Chartres Cathedral in 1308, in gratitude for his victory at the Battle of Mons-en-Pévèle in 1304, referred to by Oakeshott as “Mons-en-Pouille.” That sword was last recorded at the cathedral in the 18th century. Considering the age, character and possible Chartres provenance of this surviving example, Oakeshott concluded that “it is probable that this is that sword.”
A Kingly Medieval Sword
Oakeshott described the original as a “kingly sword.” He classified its blade as Type XIV, its pommel as Type K and its cross as Style 7. The iron pommel and cross were plated with gold, much of which still survived when the sword was documented. Even more remarkably, the central recess of the pommel contained a fragment of ancient woven fabric in the form of a cross, protected beneath a thin plate of rock crystal.
Deepeeka’s Historical Recreation
Deepeeka’s Philippe IV Sword recreates the distinctive character of this extraordinary medieval original. Its high carbon steel blade carries the historic Latin inscription, while the iron cross and pommel are gold plated to capture the appearance of the surviving sword. The blade is full tang and heat treated to a Rockwell hardness of 48–52. Complete with a leather-wrapped scabbard, this recreation offers collectors a fascinating interpretation of a sword that Ewart Oakeshott considered a probable survivor from the court of Philippe IV of France.
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