AN ITALIAN CINQUEDEA OR SHORT SWORD, 44cm broad tapering blade with three graduated bands of shallow fullers, the whole profusely etched with cavalry and infantry battle scenes at the forte, surmounted by a crest and a figure of a nobleman, further battle scenes, lions and stands of arms, characteristic hilt with sharply down angled crossguard, broad flattened pommel with later embossed white metal inserts, etched grip, decorated with foliage and classical imagery. The profile of the nobleman is probably that of Philip II of Spain, wearing the Order of the Golden Fleece and holding a baton. The blade and decoration appear to be entirely contemporary to the period suggested but unusually one or two panels have been left blank or unfinished. A small panel above the profile bust has been erased but two letters R and P can be seen. The hilt and the white metal inlays are later, probably 19th Century.
