Gilded German Executioner’s Sword, Late 17th/Early 18th C

Description

Featuring gilt brass hilt of cruciform shape with spiral twist quillons expanding toward the
acorn finials with acanthus decoration. Ovoid pommel with large button decorated ensuite.
Grip wrapped with twisted copper wire, secured by faceted ferrules and featuring remains
of gold textile tassels top and bottom. Broad (2 ½” wide) double-edged 32 ½” blade with
wide 9 ½” long central fuller and squared-off tip. The forte deeply engraved with “Wan
dem Sunder abgesprochen Wird das leben/So Wird er Mir unter meine hand gegeben”
(When the sinner is denied life/So he will be given under my hand) on one side in the fuller
and “Die Herren Steuren dem unheil/Ich Exequire Ihr End urtheil” (Gentlemen control the
evil/I execute your final judgement) on the other; flanked by etched and gilt classical
decoration inside a double line border. Above this are the gilt letters “I.N.R.I.” with fine
classical design above. Very good original condition with clear markings,retaining
approximately 70% of the original gilding on hilt and blade; the blade still sharp with some
scratches, age staining, and a few shallow edge nicks. Overall length 42 ½”. Probably the
highest quality executioner sword we have ever offered.