The Attack – Interpretation 1

Imagine the fencer on the left in Left Pflug. From this position it is quite natural to throw a thrust at the face or neck. The fencer on the right is prepared for this can easily counter.

In an effort to confound his opponent, the fencer of the left chooses to raise his sword high while at the same time aiming at the chest. Allowing the left-hand to slip to the pommel makes this possible and gives better control over the aim.

The Attack – Interpretation 2

The fencer on the left starts in Ochs and throws the most obvious thrust, presumably hoping to catch the opponent completely asleep. Effective, but boring.

The Counter – Interpretation 1

The counter being shown is performed by moving the right foot. At the same time the left hand is thrown to the right, allowing for a fast cut whose center of rotation is the right wrist. It is essential that the right hand does not move relative to the ground. If it moves to the right when you take the step the opponent’s sword can follow.

The action is followed by a short-edge cut to the face.

The Counter – Interpretation 2

The counter being shown is performed by moving the right foot. At the same time the right hand is thrown to the left, allowing for a fast cut whose center of rotation is the left wrist. It is essential that the left hand does not move relative to the ground. If it moves to the right when you take the step the opponent’s sword can follow.

The action is followed by a short-edge cut to the face.

Notes

See how the fencer on the left is lower than the fencer on the right, This suggests to me a wide off-line step by one or both participants.

The full view of the left-hand fencer’s butt and back suggests to me a narrow stance, If true, that means the right-hand fencer is taking the off-line step.