Rare Styrian (Austria) Estoc, ca. 1580

Description

Very rare version of the estoc, used in areas of Austria and Hungary bordering the Ottoman Empire. These were carried by Austrian harquebusiers and Hungarian hussars on horseback in the wars with the Turks. Identical examples featured in the Landeszeughaus in Graz, Austria. Distinctive guard with ring quillions and a flat octagonal plate, with an integral cap at the quillion block covering the ricasso to keep water out of the scabbard, as found on other swords in Graz. This was the forerunner of the modern scabbard throat, being attached to the hilt rather than the scabbard. Tapered conical pommel with small button cap; original wood grip and leather wrap (heavily worn). Straight narrow diamond- section 39 ½” thrusting blade. Likely a cellar find with moderate to heavy pitting overall, but otherwise untouched and complete. Overall length 45 ½”. A similar example in better condition sold at auction in London in 2008 for nearly $14,000. This rare example recently discovered in Hungary.