Oriental-style serpette - Lot 404

Oriental-style serpette Gold damascened steel Europe, probably Germany or Italy, 18th/19th century L. 32.7 cm This European weapon in the Oriental style is almost entirely gold-damascened on the blade and handle, with a profusion of plant and floral motifs, and friezes of cruciform motifs. In addition to this rich decoration, its shape is complex, particularly that of the blade: single-edged with a round tip (reminiscent of a Renaissance helmet), it features a cut-out and scalloped decoration on the back of the blade. The handle, entirely damascened with floral motifs, consists of a cylindrical central part framed by two spherical parts separated by rings of braided motifs.