An Impressive, Exhibited Gilt Bronze Dragon Mounted Vampire Stake, 19th century

This large and powerful fluted wooden vampire stake is elaborately carved from powerful handle to deadly tip. To either side are two ornate bronze and gilt dragons positioned so that together they form a stylized cross. Between them is an applied cross of gilt bronze, while below, in applied leather and enhanced with a twine border, are stylized roses on a background of hawthorn leaves symbolizing the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Vampires resist plants that symbolize new life.  This design is repeated on the handle, again in applied leather, with a twine frieze below.

Until the early 20th century, many people believed vampire stories were true. Across cultures and continents, the powers of vampire-like ghouls were blamed for phenomena for which there was no medical explanation, such as the spread of disease or what happens to the human body after death. One of the 19th century’s most intriguing mysteries involves the. manufacturing and selling of vampire-slaying accouterments. People could choose the necessities to vanquish vampires: stakes, knives, hammers, crucifixes, bibles, and holy water. While the origins of this vampire equipment continue to be shrouded in mystery, recent historical evidence suggests that such tools became popular in Western Europe after Bram Stroker published his novel “Dracula” in 1897, captivating audiences with romantic tales of gothic horror. Individuals who were superstitious about traveling to Eastern Europe would only embark on the journey if they were armed with vampire-slaying essentials, such as this impressive example.

Medium: Wood, bronze, leather, twine

Dimensions: 23 x 12.75 x 2.25 inches (58 x 32 x 6 cm)

Condition: Intact and in very good condition overall.

Provenance: Deaccessioned from the Vampire & Paranormal Museum Collection (VPMC), Lambertville, New Jersey, thereafter a private NJ collection.