A Venetian basket-hilted Schiavona, of 109cm in total length, dating from early 18th century Italy, sold by Czerny's auction house for €3,700.

 

Straight, double-edged blade of lenticular section, with central fuller featuring the inscription "EN RIQWE COEL" at the first part, divided by four crosses at the right side and "EN ALAMANIA" at the left side. Typical iron basket hilt, the loop-guard near the quillon marked with cabalistic symbols, thumb ring, brass pommel shaped as a stylised cat's head. Leather-covered wooden grip.