This morbid piece of art is a German executioner's sword from the late-17th to early-18th century, near the end of the use of swords for beheading. These swords were specially adapted for their purpose and often ornately decorated in honor of their sinister task. Executioner's held an interesting place in European society throughout the medieval ages and through the renaissance, in part being societal pariahs, while also being highly respected for their grim work. The ornate embellishment of this particular sword certainly implies that respect. It measures 42 3/4 inches overall with a 32 1/2 inch blade that is blunted/squared at the tip, typical of this type of sword that was only intended to ever make decisive cuts. The blade is very wide, approximately 2 1/2 inches wide at the ricassos and tapers slightly to approximately 2 1/4 inches at the tip, which is also typical for these swords. It weighs approximately 3.12 lbs. (1.725 kg). The blade is extensively engraved on the lower third on both sides, much of which shows traces of having gilt accents/fills. At the forte on both side is a flourish of floral scroll and motifs centered around Germanic knotwork over "I.N.R.I.", which is gilt filled. These markings invoking deep Christian connotations, being the inscription posted above Jesus' head upon his crucifixion, standing for "Iesus Nazarenus, Rex Iudaeorum" or "Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews". Below that on each side are bordered rectangular panels, each featuring more Germanic knotwork and floral motifs on a striated background, and each with a different inscription. One of the inscriptions reads, "Die Herren Steüren dem únheil, Ich Exequire Ihr End-urtheil." which is loosely translated to "Gentlemen control the evil, I execute your final judgment." The inscription on the other side is, "Wan dem jünder abgejprochen wird das leben, So Wird er mir únter meine hánd gegeben." which loosely translates to "When life is denied to the sinner, he will be given under my hand." These eerie inscriptions are certainly fitting with the grim task undertaken by this sword and its owner. The gilt brass guard is of a simple cross type with spiral roped quillions ending in acorn-like finials. The grip is tightly wrapped with brass wire with gold colored decorative tassels at the top and bottom. The pommel is of a fluted scent stopper type, also of gilt brass, and has a small spherical finial at the base. Provenance: The Collection of Joe M. Wanenmacher Jr

Fine, the blade mostly a bright grey patina with some scattered darker patches and small patches of light pitting. There are a few scattered small nicks in each of the edges. The engraving on the fine blade remains crisp with strong traces of the original gilt finish. The hilt retains 40% of the original gilt finish with the balance showing an attractively aged brass, mostly tight wire wrap on the grip, and much of the decorative tassels remaining. An incredible sword that certainly stirs one's morbid curiosity!