PARTISAN (WEAPON)

A 'partisan' (also 'partizan') is a type of polearm that was used in Europe during medieval times. It consisted of a spear or lance head that was constructed as a small double headed axe built into the lower blade. Time showed this to not be the most effective design for war; however, the partisan stayed in "use" for many years as a ceremonial weapon after it had become obsolete. Its design quickly changed from the practical to the foppish. Most partisans kept in museums today have extensively sculpted blades that may sport a great deal of gilding. In profile, the head of a partisan may look similar to that of a ranseur, ox tongue, or spetum.