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THE SCHIAVONA: A 17th Century Italian Masterpiece
Article & Photos by Jean Binck
June 23, 2003 · Article spans 1 page
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The Schiavona came from the 16th century sword of the Venetian Doge guard
which largely consisted of Dalmatian Slavs (Schiavoni).
This sword combined the full hand protection of a deep basket hilt made up
of a number of connecting iron bars, and a very efficient blade that
allowed both cut and thrust.
During the 17th century, due to the trade with northern Italy, the
Schiavona won a wide popularity in other European armies as
well. Fitted with a long blade, it became the favourite sword of the heavy
cavalry.
Here is a description of such a sword which is the private property of a
collector friend who kindly allowed me to take these pictures and to
handle and measure this wonderful item.
The blade is straight, two-edged 932 mm long and 34 mm wide at the ricasso
and 4.5 mm thick. It bears a maker mark on both sides that I could not
identify.
The grip is covered with leather and has the typical flat "cat’s
head" brass pommel both sides of which are ornamented.
The hilt is a complex assembly of iron bars which forms a basket 103 mm
wide. On the inner side of the cross-guard is a iron thumb loop.
The sword is 1071 mm long and weighs 1125 grams.
By comparing with items in museums, there should be a leather cap attached
to the cross-guard which covers the mouth of the scabbard when the sword
is sheathed. This leather cap also protects the index finger that grips
the cross-guard and rests against the edge of the blade, which would be
painful if not protected.
On the examined item, this leather cap as well as the scabbard were
missing.
I had the opportunity to handle the Schiavona, and I can tell you
that it is certainly not only a sword maker masterpiece, but also a
magnificently well balanced and efficient soldier’s sword which certainly
deserved its wide popularity among the 17th century cavalry.
Bibliography
Wagner E. , Cut and Thrust Weapons, Hamlyn, UK (1969)
Editor's Note
Text and pictures are the property of the author
Author Contact Information
Contact the author: jeanbck@hotmail.com
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