Menu
AUCTION 45: ANTIQUE ARMS AND ARMOR
Lot 209:
This is an 18th-century Caucasian shashka with a very well-preserved double-fullered blade. On both sides of the base of the blade, set below a depiction of a lion ‘couchant’, are engravings with the phrase ‘Vincere aut. mo Hungaria’ meaning ‘Victory or death for Hungary’. The phrase is set above a depiction of a Hungarian soldier with a long coat and feathered cap. Below the soldier, on the obverse side of the blade, is a partially obscured inscription beginning with the letter E, but as of yet, we have not been able to make it out. The reverse side of the blade bears a maker’s mark, a crescent moon with a face, which is sometimes associated with Solingen, the famous "City of Blades" in Germany.
At some point in history, this blade was brought to the Caucasus, where it was set into a beautifully crafted niello handle in the style of the region. The eared handle is decorated with remarkably intricate floral, filigree, and geometric patterns throughout. Similarly executed niello work can be found on every metal fitting of the black leather-wrapped wooden scabbard.
L: 38 3/4 in., (98.5 cm.)
Condition: The blade is lightly pitted towards the tip but is otherwise in great condition. The engravings are well preserved. The hilt has several small dents. Expected signs of wear and age on fittings. Possible old repair to scabbard leather.
Share this lot:
