Target Crossbow with Windlass

During the 17th century a distinctive form of target crossbow was developed, in the Low Countries. It was spanned by a windlass, or English winder, and aided the user in arming and cocking the crossbow.  The long tiller or stock featured a support for the hand or bench in the fashion of Flemish and Dutch target guns of the period.  Such bows were used by militia-guard organizations for participation in processions and annual shooting contests. 

It is of note that this crossbow has a trace of a badly worn Amsterdam control mark found on the inner side, right arm of the bow steel.