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Large Late 18th Century German Hirschfänger Hunting Sword with Stag Grip & Original Scabbard – c.1780–1815
Offered here is an impressive antique German / Central European Hirschfänger (hunter\'s sword or hunting hanger) dating approximately to the late 18th or very early 19th century, circa 1780–1815.
This is a particularly substantial example, measuring approximately 29 inches overall, with a broad 23-inch single-edged blade measuring approximately 1.75 inches wide at the ricasso. Its unusually broad blade gives the sword considerable presence compared with many smaller hunting hangers of the period.
The hilt features an attractive natural stag-antler grip surrounded by extensively decorated brass furniture. The straight brass crossguard terminates in ornamental finials, while the guard, ferrule and pommel fittings display attractive period floral and geometric decoration.
The blade is unmarked and retains an attractive aged steel appearance with scattered dark oxidation, staining, scratches and surface wear consistent with considerable age. Please examine the photographs closely, as they form an important part of the condition description.
Of particular interest is the surviving period leather scabbard with decorated brass furniture. The decoration of the scabbard fittings complements that found on the sword\'s hilt, making the complete ensemble especially attractive for display.
CONDITION: The sword itself remains remarkably solid for its age. The blade, stag grip and pommel assembly are secure. The guard has only a very slight amount of age-related movement.
The leather scabbard is fragile and shows significant age and wear. All brass scabbard fittings are presently loose. The center band slides freely, the throat fitting is loose, and the lower decorated chape is detached due to deterioration/breakage of the leather at the end of the scabbard. The original detached chape is included. No attempt has been made to permanently glue or otherwise modernize these fittings.
The scabbard is therefore best regarded as an important surviving original component requiring careful handling rather than a fully functional scabbard.
Approximate dimensions:• Overall sword length: 29 inches• Blade length: 23 inches• Blade width at ricasso: 1.75 inches• Natural stag-antler grip• Decorated brass hilt• Period leather scabbard with decorated brass mounts• Unmarked blade• Circa 1780–1815
A handsome and unusually substantial example of the traditional continental European Hirschfänger, combining a broad fighting-sized hunting blade, genuine stag grip, extensively decorated brass furniture and a rare surviving period scabbard.
An excellent display piece for a collection of 18th-century European edged weapons, German hunting arms, antique swords or continental militaria.
Please study all photographs carefully for exact condition and completeness. Sold as an antique collectible.
