[Cathey]

In my continuing hunt to pin point the origin and decipher the text on this dagger I found a very similar example (although in much poorer condition) that sold at Thomas Del Mar in June and is apparently English 1660. With this information I have updated the description of my dagger as follows:

Left Handed dagger circa 1660,possibly English.
Iron hilt comprising a pair of short quillions with flattened globular terminals, large compressed side ring, and flattened spherical pommel, decorated with foliage and various birds in silver relief. Ornately engraved tapering blade with 3 panels of words in Latin, A knight in Armour, various birds and foliage. Grip wrapped in silver wire with Turks heads top and bottom.

At this stage I agree with the general view that the text is Latin and may come from the Te Deum. I managed to find a full translation of the Te Derun in English; however given the style of the script I am still unable to be certain of the exact translation.

I have re-photographed the three passages of text on each side with a high macro lense and I am hopeful that someone might have another go at interpreting the possible translation. The first two passages on both sides appear the same, the third however appears different.


Cheers Cathey