Obviously I have so soft spot for strange things! :D
Today I have a very strange weapon to discuss about!
Please understand this description as expression of my opinion.
Of course, this sword is a so – called “marriage”. Described as “italian storta, 17th Century”.
Very short, complete 69cm/27,2 inches.
The blade is shortened and from a sabre, may be Italy. Assumedly 17th century. You can see the marks. They are on both sides. There is a clear loss of material. You can see how plain the fuller is. Also visible ( and I hope also on photo): knit lines.
The cross-guard is quite strange and probably new (how new, I do not know). First impression was, that the typical S-Form, we surely all know, was bent. Altough I asked myself, could that be possible? Now, I think it is “new”.
Casually: Some people told me, the cross-guard is fit to protect hand while fighting ??? To that item, please opinions from “sword-fighters”. I would be glad.
The most important reason for posting is the hollow grip in form of a strange bird.
It is made from two halves out of iron. The eyes are soldering with brass and copper.
Mainly there are three perculiarties:
First: the making of grip
Second: the look of the bird.
Third: it was opened. The tang is fixed with a conductor!
So when I look on the grip I think, it is old. But how old? And where is it from?
So I am looking for comparism and information.
My question to all unprejudiced, interesting people:
Who has seen a grip like that? In a museum, in a private collection or on a painting?
What are your ideas and opinions?
Many greetings

