SPANISH MODELO 1857 NAVAL OFFICER'S SWORD

This Spanish Naval officer's sword dates ca.1900-1910, and may have been carried by a Spanish Navy officer during the Spanish-American War. Modeled after the British naval officer's sword design, it features a Lion-head pommel, with a mane flowing down the back-strap. Most of the gilding is present, and there is no damage to the folding guard. Blade is marked FABRICA TOLEDO at the obverse recess. 75 cm-long blade is in the quill-back fashion, with a heavy slashing foible. Blade is deeply and profusely etched with the naval motifs on both sides. Chrome-plating shows some pinpoint pock-marks, there are signs of prior cleanings, foible has some light pitting. Scabbard leather has split along the back seam, and requires restoration. A very nice and rarely seen naval officer's sword from the turn of the 20th century.