Rare Venetian Sword Of The Guards Of The Doge's Palace, 1480-1490

Rare Venetian Sword of Doge’s Palace Guards 1480 -1490
A very special sword from Venice!!

This sword, referred to as “spada Da Fanti” was used by the Palace guards of the Doge of Venice and many examples still can be seen in the Ducal Palace collection in Venice.

The rooms of the Armoury contain a valuable historical collection of weapons and armaments from several sources. The core of the collection is already documented as existing in the 14th century; and at the time of the Republic the Armoury, under the control of the Council of Ten, was stocked with weapons that would be readily available for the Palace’s guards. On particularly delicate or important occasions, these guards might be joined by the arsenalotti, the highly-trained workforce from the shipyards of the Arsenale (e.g. when a Doge died, all the gates to the Palace were sealed and placed under the guard of the arsenalotti). Comprising various valuable pieces, the collection of arms was partially dispersed after the fall of the Republic, but it still contains over 2000 exhibits. These include very famous examples of 15th and 16th century suits of armour, along with swords, halberds, quivers and crossbows. These often bear the inscribed or painted monogram CX – for “Council of Ten” – which also appears on the door jambs; further evidence of the might of the Council

This sword likely belonged to a high ranking member of the Guard and is a true fighting sword.

The hilt is comprised of a finger guards with knuckle guard and on the opposite side a spatulated quillion and spike, this was likely to trap the opponents blade. it also shows signs of having received some trauma as it should be more down swept. the pommel is large and the perfect counter weight to give it its flexibility. The condition of the grip is excellent, this appears to be the antique and has been well preserved with the original Fleur de Lys stamped.
The blade is a stocky 4 cm wide with double edge, with three fullers run down each side of the blade. The blade is also stamped which confirms the age of the sword.

The overall condition is excellent on this piece and the sword is extremely balanced and is a museum quality example. This is the only sword I have come across in 35 years outside of the examples referenced in the musuem,

Specifications:

Overall 92 CM

Blade 77 CM

Weight 0.7 KG

https://antiquesarmoury.com/product/rare-venetian-sword-of-doges-palace-guards-1480-1490/