Looks a bit like a spontoon
 

Here's an interesting piece (to me anyway) and I'm not sure how to classify it.

It appears to been made for ceremonial purposes, and is cast in solid brass.
Also it's damaged - looks as if it's been thrust into a fire and bent off at the tip.

I did notice a similar looking piece in Rembrandt's painting; the Nightwatch, which has the Lieutenant holding a type of staff - not an exact likeness.

Any ideas of it's age or purpose and what would you describe it as?

Regards, David

Very nice!
 

A beautifully crafted piece you have there. Too bad the end is damaged. This is a parade partizan that could have been used by Royal guards standing watch or as part of a royal march, I suppose. A Google search under 'parade partizan' will yield similar examples.

Oh yes,

A parade partizan or a spontoon, I think both terms are correct.
I would assign it to Northern Italy, 17th c.

A high quality piece no doubt, even though the top finial is missing.

Best,
Michael