129897_auctions-imperial-2018-arms-and-armor-november/
Lot 174:
Description
Of superior quality for the type, the mounts of bronze, finely cast and chased with Satanic symbols including a skull and crossbones, bat-like wings, an owl, coiled snake and hourglass. The scabbard bears the distinctive image of Satan, depicted with pointed ears and cloven hoofs, overtly fondling a virgin. The blade of steel, wrought with waved edge in emulation of a flickering flame, etched with symmetrical rays, with a slot at the center. Mid-19th c. Very light wear. The fine workmanship and symbolism suggest this dagger was made either for one of two prominent 19th c. diabolists, Eugene Vintras, founder of the Church of Carmel (1839,) or Abbot Boullan, creator of the Society for the Reparation of Souls (1856.) Overall length 26.7cm.
Condition II
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