Bidspirit auction | Fine 17th C. English Mortuary

Fine 17th C. English Mortuary Sword - Antique fine English mortuary sword from the second quarter of the 17th century. Tapering single edged blade, symmetrical steel hilt comprised of a pair of langets, basket-guard which is joined at the front and rear by a pair of scrolling bars. Vestigial scrolling quillon and chiseled ovoid pommel. The original wood grip with spiraled carving is missing wrap. Size 37 1/2” L, blade 30 3/4” L The mortuary swords were made to depict the face or death mask of the executed King Charles I in 1649. The term was extended to refer to an entire type of Civil Ware era broadswords. Swords of this form were Oliver Cromwell's weapon of choice. Condition: basket guard with a few loses/holes.