Exceptional 16th C. German Hand and Half Bastard Sword

This example is in very fine condition and dates to circa 1550. The blade is double-edged with a wide shallow fuller on each side approximately half the length of the blade. Further, the upper part of each side of the blade is very finely and delicately engraved with a central flower, leaves and vines and also with the wolf mark of Solingen inlaid with copper wire. The quillons form an S-curve and each terminal is grooved resembling a paw or fingers. Similar grooves appear on the terminals of the U-shaped hand guard. Thumb and forefinger rings for the lower hand complete the hand guard. The cone-shaped pommel has chiseled decorations on one side. The grip is covered with leather.

Overall, the sword is in fine conditionfor its age and very well balanced.The blade issharp with no nicks and shows some areas of minor pitting, otherwise, the metal is very good condition. The leather grip appears to be original with only the very slightest surface wear. Overall length is 41.5 with the blade 33.5