An early predecessor to other basket hilt type swords throughout Europe, the schiavona was popularized by the mercenaries who guarded the doge of Venice, who were from the Dalmatia region of modern Croatia and Montenegro. These basket hilted swords developed to protect the hands in situations where a protective gauntlet wasn't worn, such as unarmoured lower class fighters or when out of armour in everyday clothing. The blade of this example is double marked "MENINA" in both fullers on each side of the blade, who is likely the maker. The long straight blade has a low central ridge and deep, narrow, double fullers on the lower third. The hilt features a typical, ornate Venetian style basket and an iconic, brass "cat's head" pommel with a visibly peened tang. The grip is leather wrapped and spirally fluted. It measures 40 3/4 inches overall with a 34 1/4 inch blade.

Very good, the blade a bright grey patina with light pitting throughout, a few scattered light nicks in the edges, and crisp markings. The guard shows a similar bright patina and light pitting. The grip is also very good with mild wear and the brass pommel shows an attractively aged patina. A very good example of a desirable Venetian schiavona!