German Executioner's sword Early 17TH century ?

Philip · 11th April 2017, 05:54 AM

There are a relatively small number of extremely well-appointed versions of the classic Germanic / Central European "heading sword" -- with intricately engraved or etched blades, gilt-bronze guards and pommels, and wire braid wrapping with Turks' head knotting on the grips (of the sort common on civilian rapiers and similar swords). These, which tend to show no signs of repeated sharpening or extensive wear, were undoubtedly the "Swords of Justice" paraded before judicial officials as symbols of office. An outstanding example sold at Sothebys Summers Place (West Sussex), 7 Dec. 1998 (Lot 3050). More recently, a slightly more lavish one, with scabbard, was featured by Peter Finer at his Ilmington, Warwickshire gallery.

I agree that the example posted in this thread is almost certainly an executioner's implement, judging from its starkly utilitarian finish. Quite an impressive thing, clearly designed to do a specific task with great efficiency.

11th April 2017, 05:54 AM	#6
Philip Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: California Posts: 1,036	Judicial regalia or executioner's tool? There are a relatively small number of extremely well-appointed versions of the classic Germanic / Central European "heading sword" -- with intricately engraved or etched blades, gilt-bronze guards and pommels, and wire braid wrapping with Turks' head knotting on the grips (of the sort common on civilian rapiers and similar swords). These, which tend to show no signs of repeated sharpening or extensive wear, were undoubtedly the "Swords of Justice" paraded before judicial officials as symbols of office. An outstanding example sold at Sothebys Summers Place (West Sussex), 7 Dec. 1998 (Lot 3050). More recently, a slightly more lavish one, with scabbard, was featured by Peter Finer at his Ilmington, Warwickshire gallery. I agree that the example posted in this thread is almost certainly an executioner's implement, judging from its starkly utilitarian finish. Quite an impressive thing, clearly designed to do a specific task with great efficiency.