These Ecole swords are indeed pretty unattractive and of course intended only for ceremonial or parade use, but their rarity is probably the most compelling factor for collectors. They are intriguing curiosities and seem to have some degree of connection in some fraternal type weapons, which are also gaining in popularity in collecting.
Good points on the Nasrid broadsword shown, and these swords may well have been what prompted Charles Buttin's suggestion for Spanish origin of these quillon arrangements. There was of course as mentioned considerable interaction between Italy and Spain through royal and diplomatic channels through the centuries, so tight similarities are not surprising.
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