Vadi: Longsword: Segno (Fol 15r)
Segno (Fol 15r)
System: Interpreting Filippo Vadi
Section: Longsword
Source Text and Image
[Callipers above the head] I am callipers, that divide into parts, Oh fencer heed my principle, Thus [the callipers] measure the tempo similarly.
[Bear at the right shoulder] The nature of the bear is to turn Here, there, up and down: Thus your shoulder should move, Sending your sword out to hunt.
[Dragon at the right hand] The right hand should be prudent, Bold and deadly as a serpent.
[Ram at the left shoulder] I am a ram, always on the lookout, Naturally always looking to clash, So your cut should be clever, Always parry when [your cut] is answered.
[Eye at the heart] The eye with the heart should be alert, Bold and full of foresight.
[Greyhound at the left hand] With the left hand I have the sword by the point, To strike already when it is joined And if you want the strike to be complete Make it as quick as a greyhound.
[Keys at the knees] And he who does not have these keys with him Will make little war with this play. The legs [are] keys it is well said, Because you close them and also open them.
[Sun at the right foot] You see the sun, that makes great turns, And where it is born it returns. The foot with the sun should return together, If you want the play to adorn your person.
[Tower at the left foot] Plant the left foot without fear, Make it firm like a castle, And then your body will be completely safe.
[Wheel below both feet] When one or other foot bothers you Turn it quickly like a mill wheel, The heart must be foresightful, For on it depends shame and honour.
Video
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Notes
Key Resources
- Facsimile: The Spada Press facsimile of De Arte Gladiatoria Dimicandi
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Source: Biblioteca Nazionale di Roma, Fondo Vittorio Emanuele, Codice 1324 Translation: Dr. Guy Windsor
