Extremely Rare Imperial German Naval Officer’s Sword with Damascus Blade

Description

Extremely Rare Imperial German Naval Officer’s Sword with Damascus Blade

Period: circa 1900–1914

An outstanding and extremely rare deluxe Imperial German naval officer’s sword, featuring a highly unusual lion-head pommel with one green and one red glass eye — a very scarce variant among known examples. The lion’s head is of a rare sculptural type with exceptionally fine detailing and a powerful expression, symbolizing strength and command.

The gilded brass guard is richly pierced and engraved with floral scrolls and the Imperial crown over a fouled anchor, representing the Kaiserliche Marine. The white grip, bound with gilt wire, remains in excellent condition and retains the original silver-and-red bullion portépée.

The magnificent Damascus steel blade displays a beautiful watered pattern throughout, enhanced with deep blue and gilded panels depicting naval trophies, crowned anchors, and acanthus scrollwork.

Presented with its black-lacquered metal scabbard with gilded brass fittings and two suspension rings, all in excellent preservation.

Dimensions (approx.):

Overall length: 90,5 cm

Blade length: 75 cm
Blade width at ricasso: 2.2 cm

Remarks:

A museum-quality example of a deluxe Imperial German naval officer’s sword by WKC, Solingen, featuring Damascus blade, blue-and-gold etching, and an exceptionally rare lion-head variant — among the most desirable patterns produced for high-ranking officers of the Kaiserliche Marine before World War I.