This elegant type 2 schiavona was closely modelled on a version that we handled in the Grand Master's Palace Armouries in Valletta. Made for a left-handed fencer who fights with sword and rotella, it was designed to rotate quickly around a shield.
A snappy cutter, it rotates smoothly and swiftly in the hand, arcing through cut after cut. It is ideal for the closer-measure fight, easily takin g ground. As such, it will pair well with its wielder's rotella, but would also suit a dagger or shine as a single weapon.
After some discussion with our client, Chris designed the proportions of the guard and grip to suit a lower-down grip style, but left room for a degree of finger-up work where necessary. A thumb ring to the rear assists in moving through a variety of grip styles while fencing.
This sword was a worthy research project for Chris, involving the handling of originals in Malta and the Royal Armouries in Leeds, and comparison between these and other extant swords found in books and catalogues.
Named for the Latin genus to which cats belong, the sword features a classic cat's head style pommel in brass, complemented by a regal oxblood grip.
Please see our pricing structure for an idea of what a similar sword would cost.
∴ Specs ∴
Total length: 98cm
Blade length: 82cm
Blade width at base: 4.2cm
Blade stock: 6mm
Grip length: 10.5cm
Grip and pommel: 14.5cm
Grip to guard: 5cm
Quillon span: 14cm
Weight: 1250cm
Point of Balance: 9.5cm
Right-handed
Blunt edges
Rounded tip
Fencing flex
∴ Notes ∴
The hand-forged and heat-treated guard and pommel are polished to a satin finish. The Type 2 guard is formed of flat section bars in a basket formation including a ladder to the front and a thumb ring to the rear.
The oak grip is wrapped first in linen thread, and then in oxblood red kidskin. The brass pommel is carved into a traditional "cat's head" shape and finished with a carved florette.
The blade features 3 fullers to the centre and a triangular taper.
An oxblood red scabbard was made to accompany the sword, featuring a layered lime core and kidskin outer, as well as a sword belt with brass buckles, hooks and sliders.
∴ Gallery ∴
∴ A Glorious Reflection ∴
The case's lid opens with a creak and a waft of wax polish. Through gritted teeth, you let out a breath you didn't know you were holding as your eyes travel over the intricate guard. The brass pommel. The blood-red grip.
It is cold to the touch when you reach for it, and on instinct you almost recoil from the smooth, solid steel. However, once your fingers slip around the grip, you lift it to find a reassuring balance of elegance and force.
Glancing around, you practice a swing. The sword is keen and darting in your finely-honed hand, its arcs graceful and ferocious like a wild animal. Fitting, you think, recalling the name you have heard the crowds calling you by.
"The Cat," they whisper now as you strut through the streets - though whether it is a reference your nimble footwork, your craftiness, or your apparent nine lives, you do not know. Regardless, you look forward to hearing the word ringing through the streets after tomorrow's duel.
For now you savor the calm before the storm, the schiavona's gleaming ladder a promise of fame to come. With a feline grin you return your new treasure to its case and close the lid, ready to carve your name into legend.