Jasper,
The size of the blade, choice of grip, and presence of a sea dog (some say dolphin?) on the upper guard supports the idea of maritime use. The figure looks like a saracen, not sure if there is any significance that he looks unbearded? Not sure Russia is included in the list of countries that use lions as a national symbol but perhaps the creatures are used here just to symbolize brave victory as Jim suggested? It looks like the motif appear on both plates? It really does tickle the imagination.
How can you tell that the sword has been taken apart very recently?
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