Hi All...

Vladimir Cervenka sent me some pictures taken during the construction of one of his Schiavona's... After the excellent Schiavona Article by Nathan and Cervenka Schiavona Review by Bill, I thought these in-progress pictures may be of interest.

Vladimir told me that he left the inside of the basket rough because he had seen original rapiers and schiavonas which were left rough on the inside of the basket. He also mentioned that he preferred a satin finish on the outside of the basket and blade, but that the customers tended to prefer a very high polish.

Here are the photos...

ks

---

 Attachment: 52.84 KB

Forging one of the arms of the basket

 Attachment: 71.32 KB

Shaping one of the basket's "squid" arms

 Attachment: 81.59 KB

Piecing the basket together

 Attachment: 34.45 KB

Braiding the cord for the grip

 Attachment: 24.98 KB

Wrapping grip core with cord

 Attachment: 27.59 KB

Corded grip before leather covering

Thanks for posting these photos, Kirk.

I'll take this opportunity to share some in-progress shots of two schiavone in my own collection.

First up is the sword from Patrick Bárta of TEMPL Historic Arms:

[ Linked Image ] [ Linked Image ] [ Linked Image ]

[ Linked Image ][ Linked Image ][ Linked Image ][ Linked Image ]

Left to right: Forged parts, cleaned-up parts, after welding, welded and shaped. (Click photos for full-sized versions)


Next is the creation of Erik Stevenson of Phoenix Metal Creations:

[ Linked Image ] [ Linked Image ] [ Linked Image ]

[ Linked Image ][ Linked Image ][ Linked Image ]

Left to right: Parts before welding, welded and shaped, pommel being carved. (Click photos for full-sized versions)

Wow, thanks for those pics, both Kirk and Nathan! I love those kinds of shots. I remember years ago not ever caring for basket hilts at all until I saw the pictures Vince Evans did of his construction of a Scottish basket hilt. From that point forward I suddenly had a whole new appreciation for them.

Cool!

I want one! I think the Schiavona is the one of the best looking basket hilts (Sorry Mac ;) ). I Definitely have getting one on my list.

-Nate C.

P.S. I seriously love that Eric Stevenson one. Too bad hes leaving/left the business. :cry:

Nice stuff guys,thanks. Always fun to see things as they are being created.

Cheers,

Bill

Great shots guys. It really is impressive to see the amount of work and craftsmanship that goes into making a nice basket hilt. Even if this type of sword is not your cup of tea, you still have to appreciate the work and the effort.

Thanks again.