These short cutting swords known as hunting swords, hunting hangers, or cuttoes were commonly carried by gentlemen in the 17th and 18th centuries. When hunting, they could be used to finish off wounded game. They also saw use as military sidearms into the early 19th century, including in the French & Indian War and the American Revolution. This sword has a 18 3/4 inch curved blade with stamps of a face and some light floral engraving. The brass hilt has case designs of dogs, masks, stags, and figures. The antique ivory hilt is grooved and carved with a bust with his hand reaching across to draw a sword and a beast, probably a lion, each with inset eyes. It has a black leather scabbard with brass fittings.