AUCTIONS IMPERIAL MAY 2021
Lot 295:
Description
A rare type of classic hussar form with horn grips, elaborately mounted in silver, very finely engraved in baroque motifs and set with three fully modeled heads in high relief, believed to depict Hungarian heroes Hunyadi Janos (1406-1456,) Bocskai Istvan (1557-1606,) and Thokoly Imre (1657-1705,) together with a fine Hungarian lions head at the chape. The long blade single-edged with broad central fuller and pronounced, raised back edge. The leather-covered wooden scabbard with three large silver mounts decorated en suite with the hilt and embellished with baroque engraving, the reverse of the suspension band with a well-delineated Hungarian coat of arms. Each mount with silversmith’s stamp. 19th century. In opposition to the strict requirements of the Austrian Court, which required silk coats, knee breeches and court swords, Hungarian nobles chose to affect the dashing national costume of an embroidered tunic, pelisse, high boots and a saber. This visual show of ethnic solidarity presaged the Hungarian Revolution of 1848. Overall length 88.5 cm. Condition II
Share this lot:
