Dramatic ITALIAN BAROQUE ERA DAGGER with Chiseled Gilt Iron Hilt

A historic one of a kind object of art: 17th century left hand dagger with monumental handle. Initially embellished with gold it is chiselled with ancient ornaments and mythical scenes, reminiscent of the handles for similar period maces. The cross guard has raised arms making the entire hilt looking as an anchor. Most astonishingly the quillons of the cross guards are made in a shape of two ancient warriors. The blade with armour piercing tip has faint traces of some etchings and is likely forged of damascus steel. The whole piece is extremely mysterious and its origins might be the case for an extensive academic research. Bought by the vendor from a private collection in Germany.