crossbow

(noun)

A mechanised weapon, based on the bow and arrow, that fires bolts; it was invented during the Warring States period of the Zhou Dynasty, when its low cost and ease of use made it a preferable weapon to the chariot.

Examples of crossbow in the following topics:

  • The Qin Dynasty

    • The crossbow had been introduced in the 5th century BCE and was more powerful and accurate than the composite bows used earlier; it could also be rendered ineffective by removing two pins, which prevented enemies from capturing a working crossbow.
    • Picture of Qin Dynasty Arcuballista Bolts shown with Regular Handheld Crossbow Bolts, 5th- 3rd century B.C.
    • The crossbow was introduced in the 5th century BC and was more powerful and accurate than the composite bows used earlier.

  • Art of the Middle Kingdom

    • Crossbow men from the Terracotta Army, interred by 210 BCE, Qin Dynasty

  • Architecture during the Six Dynasties Period

    • Shu chancellor Zhuge Liang invented the wooden ox, suggested to be an early form of the wheelbarrow, and improved on the repeating crossbow.

  • The Eastern Zhou Period

    • While the chariot remained in use, there was a shift during the period to infantry, possibly because of the invention of the crossbow.

  • The Warring States Period

    • The crossbow was invented, and its low cost and easy use (as compared to the expensive chariot) resulted in the increased conscription of peasants as expandable infantry.

  • The Fall of the Han and the Three Kingdoms Period

    • Shu chancellor Zhuge Liang invented the wooden ox, suggested to be an early form of the wheelbarrow, and improved on the repeating crossbow.

  • English Architecture in the Northern Renaissance

    • The symbol in the center panel is a crossbow "bolt" passing through a "tun" (or barrel), a pun on the name of the prior.