Second half of the 19th century. Plated three bar hilt with the Italian thumb relief. Finger fluted ebony grip with some chips to the heel, worn over in its working life. 30” curved broad fullered blade with distinct clipped point. The first half finely decorated with foliage, military trophies and rams of Italy. The base with E HORSTER/SOLINGEN maker’s name. Excellent throughout including the plated scabbard. Dating to the period of unification, completed when France withdrew its protection of the Papal State and Italy took it militarily and later the military build-up under Crispi (1887-96).
