Exceptional German Hand-and-a-Half Sword, 2nd Quarter 16th C

Description

Featuring hilt of blackened hand-forged iron with elaborate guard of round-section bars forming horizontally recurved quillons with 6-pronged finials. Side ring with bars looping down and outward from the center, with checkered band joining them in the middle and ending with serpent head finials. Large pas d’ane with bars extending perpendicular to the blade and ending in 6-prong finials; the reverse with looping bars extending from the lower end of the pas d’ane and crossing to connect with the quillon on one and and forming a thumb ring on the other where it joins the quillon block. Two-stage wood grip with original leather wrap and very old museum label on the reverse; writhen vase-shaped pommel with checkered round button. Doubled-edged 37 3/8” (97.5 cm) blade of hexagonal section; the ricasso stamped with a maker’s mark on each side and the upper third with a line-bordered design of interlocking jagged-edged ovals on both sides, ending with a large anchor mark. Appears to be totally untouched and original; the blade sharp with scattered light to moderate pitting. Guard with two attached numbered metal collection tags. Grip showing great age with minor losses, cracks, and flaking. Very fine quality, with intricate and unique design, showing great age. Overall length 44 1/4” (112 cm).