Francesco Alfieri
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Francesco Alfieri of Padova was a 17th century master of the Italian school of swordsmanship. Several manuals by Alfieri are known La scherma di Francesco Alfieri of 1640 and L'arte di ben maneggiare la spada of 1653, plus La Picca (on the pike), La Bandiera (on flag-waving and twirling) and Lo Spadone (on the two-handed sword).
Alfieri was the first Italian swordsmanship author to amply quote, reference and comment on earlier masters. For instance, we know he was an ardent admirer of earlier Paduan sword master Salvator Fabris, whom he calls "a man of the greatest name in our profession." On the other hand, he sharply criticises Achille Marozzo and Ridolfo Capo Ferro and strongly disagrees with some of their positions.
In turn, Francesco Alfieri was amply quoted and praised by 1886 Italian swordsmanship master Francesco Antonio Marcelli, giving us an indication that his teaching enjoyed some popularity in the 17th century.
