1731 - Crab Sword

Crab Sword Northern Italy, Milan, 17th century, blade bearing the date "1711." A typical 17th-century hilt with a plum-shaped, bulging pommel featuring a riveted knob. The crossguard arms are distinctly angled toward the hilt; the third ring features a finely worked scalloped guard plate with signs of wear. Above it is another narrow third ring. This ring, as well as the guard plate, is secured with two screws, one of which was likely added at a later date. Bulbous hilt with iron wire wrapping and Turkish bands, likely from the 18th century. Double-edged blade (L 82 cm), grooved on both sides for over 59 cm, with signs of wear in the form of numerous chipping marks. The number and position of these marks suggest that this weapon was used by a left-handed person. On the spine, the year 1711 is stamped on both sides, each flanked by four equal-armed Milanese crosses. L 98 cm, W 880 g.