Vladimir Cervenka Type 1 Schiavona
Original: Venetian, circa 1750
The basket form of this
schiavona is classified by
Ewart Oakeshott as a Type 1. This style is the simplest form of the various types of
schiavona, classified by its wide and flattened bars that flare and overlap. The brass pommel is of the typical "cat's head" style almost always found on these types of swords.
The grip is covered in leather and appears to have cord underneath that creates spiraled grooves down its length. Twisted brass wire fits within these grooves and creates a good gripping surface.
The hilt finish arrived quite shiny and with many visible imperfections that were emphasized by the over-polished surface. I've taken a superfine polishing pad to the surfaces, giving them an even satin finish that makes the imperfections much less visible and distracting.
The blade finish is generally well done, but shows visible scratching from the maker's finishing process. It is quite sharp and has the word
Gracia inscribed within the fuller on each face.
See our
hands-on review for more information on this sword.
Overall length: 40"
Weight: 2.75 pounds
Width of guard: 5"
Blade: 33.75" long; 1.5" wide tapering to .5"
Grip and pommel: 5.875"
Point of Balance (PoB): 3.25" from cross-guard
Center of Percussion (CoP): ~21.5" from cross-guard
Maker:
Vladimir Cervenka of the Czech Republic.
This item has been retired from the collection.