An elegant and authentic 19th-century German Hirschfänger (deer catcher) Hunting Sword, complete with its original scabbard with a pocket for a skinning knife. This high-end and finely crafted sidearm would’ve been traditionally carried by foresters, hunters, and noblemen during ceremonial hunts and as a symbol of rank within the Germanic hunting tradition.
The Hirschfänger features a straight, single-edged and fullered blade with a sharpened clip point. The blade retains some of its original etching with a fair amount of discolouration and age-related patina. The hilt displays ornate brass mounts, including a crossguard with a clamshell guard and hoove quillions. The grip is made of stag antler, held in place with 3 large brass rivets, all typical of 19th-century German craftsmanship. The sword fits snugly into its leather scabbard, which is mounted with matching brass fittings at the throat and chape. This brass furniture would’ve originally been gilt-plated; however, most of it has worn away
Etched on the spine “Mohr and Speyer, Berlin”, a retailer which only traded from 1852 to 1867. The ricasso is marked with a crowned shield featuring the initial “Z,” which was the trademark of Clemen & Jung, founded in 1860.
Dimensions
Overall length: approx. 56cm (22 in)
Blade length: approx. 41.5cm (16.25 in)
Condition
Good overall. The blade is tarnished with minor signs of wear. The hilt fittings are loose around the crossguard, requiring a new washer. Otherwise, all the brasswork has an attractive aged patina and some remaining gilding. The leather scabbard is complete and structurally sound, showing expected bruising and wear. No major damage or repairs.
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