Join Leo 'Tod' Todeschini, of 'Tod's Workshop', and discover the differences between props and replicas, and the original historical weapons which often serve as inspiration for both.

Learn why historical film props are so often 'not quite right' or sometimes 'very wrong', and consider how practical limitations can affect their design. Get hands-on with both real and replica swords* and find out more about the process of making props, including some of the manufacturing techniques, key decisions and why these are taken, and more generally the impact that the unbelievable complexity of a film set brings to any object.

About the speaker: Leo 'Tod' Todeschini has been making replica weapons for 25 years, specialising in the period from 1200 – 1500. His aim is to make artefacts that have an authentic look and feel. His clients include serious re-enactors, collectors, martial artists, museums and historic institutions. He also makes fully functional fantasy weapons for film and TV. Tod has a passion for making YouTube films about historic weapons, or subjects that he feels are slightly misunderstood. These films are epitomised by the ‘Arrows vs Armour’ series which were jointly presented by Dr Tobias Capwell, former Curator of Arms and Armour at the Wallace Collection. These activities are undertaken under his company banner of ‘Tods Workshop’.

Take part at the museum: This demonstration and tour will start in the Meeting Room, Lower Ground Floor, and move on to galleries throughout the museum.