Very old Turkish (?) sabre for ID

[Matchlock]

Hi Teodor,

The general shape suggests a date of 15th/16th c. It seems to be of a type commonly associated with Hungary but was actually popular all over the neighboring countries, including Austria. First first predecessors seem to appear as early as the beginning of the Middle Ages, ca. 6th c. A mid- to late 16th-c. either sur- or revival document are the Autrian Dusäggen (tessacks).

As it shows various yellow areas, which are evoked by salt deposits and will keep destroying the piece, I suggest bathing it in aqua destillata and change the water every two days to finally de desalinate for two or three weeks. After employing a silver chloride test: when no bubbles arise anymore, the object is stable and can be either conservated in a watery tannin solution or in microcrystalline wax.

Best, and thanks for sharing,
Michael