Parade sword

A parade sword such as this object would not have been used for combat, but rather as a display of power and authority. The blunt-pointed blade is inscribed on both sides, with one bearing a cross and the other three identical markings. The hilt is highly decorated with multiple elements. It has an octagonal faceted pommel with circular hammered details, a wire wrapped grip with sailor's knot ferrules, a pierced shell guard decorated with a flower and concentric circles. The hilt also has several guard arms with hammered detailed, a crosshatched ricasso, and, if you look closely, a tiny serpent tucked under the shellguard.