Istruzione per la Scherma col Bastone (1862)

Italian Military Stick Fighting Manual

Presentation

In 19th-century Europe, military training involved far more than the use of firearms. Stick fencing played a key role in developing strength, coordination and agility among soldiers.

Originally published in 1862 by the Ministry of War of the Kingdom of Sardinia, Istruzione per la Scherma col Bastone is a rare military manual documenting a complete system of stick fighting used in infantry instruction.

This edition presents the original Italian text alongside a fully annotated Portuguese translation, making this historical source accessible to modern readers while preserving its technical integrity.

Set within the broader context of European military modernization, this treatise presents a structured and pedagogical approach to the art of the stick, where technique, discipline and physical conditioning are integrated into soldier training.

This edition includes:

✔ Full transcription of the original Italian text

✔ Annotated Portuguese translation from the original Italian

✔ Historical study of European military fencing

✔ Technical glossary with comparative analysis

✔ Complete facsimile reproduction of the original manuscript

Throughout the work, the main technical elements are described in detail: guard positions, molinelli (circular movements), attacks, defenses and sparring exercises, revealing a coherent and highly pedagogical system.

The manual establishes parallels with other European traditions such as canne française, British singlestick and Portuguese Jogo do Pau, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of European martial arts.

More than a technical manual, this work stands as a fundamental document for understanding the role of the stick as a weapon, pedagogical tool and combat system in 19th-century Europe.

Contents (summary)

• Introduction;
• Stick fencing in 19th-century Italian military instruction;
• Gymnastics and military fencing in the Kingdom of Sardinia;
• The stick in European combat traditions;
• Editorial criteria of this edition;
• Original Italian text;
• Portuguese translation;
• Fundamental movements: guard, body and preparatory exercises;
• Simple movements of attack and defense;
• Compound movements: openings and feints;
• Assault and preparatory lessons;
• Salute and combat protocol;
• Technical glossary and comparison;
• Technical conclusion;
• Bibliography;
• Facsimile of the original manuscript.

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