(Oakeshott Type XVIIIc)
This sword shares the same wide type XVIIIc blade with the NG Alexandria, but with a longer grip and more flamboyant guard and pommel. While the Alexandria has shows many features that are very Italian in character, the Principe is also designed to capture the renaissance spirit of 15th century Italy. If the Alexandira sword represents a more severe style of design, the Principe is closer to those flamboyant expressions of form that are also very much part of the art of the Italian sword. The pommel may be said to be a version of the scent stopper, or fish tail kind (oakeshott pommel type V2). Even if not an exclusively Italian type, these pommels were certainly very popular in Italy as is attested by many handsome fighting and bearing swords of this period. The style 11 guard of the Principe is inspired by a sword from the famous find in the river Dordogne: the Castillion group. This might seem surprising as these weapons are traditionally associated with the last battle of the 100 years war between England and France and generally thought of as being of English, or perhaps in part French manufacture. However, there are indications that some of the Castillion swords may have been of Italian origin.
The design of the Principe aims to emulate that particular quality of graceful curves and harsh geometry that is characteristic of so much of Italian art to which those powerful renaissance princes were patrons. We see the same taste for refined lines and harmonic proportions reflected in the swords of the period. The long grip of the Principe makes for a very lively balance. It s a massive sword, but it does not feel heavy in the hand as it is wielded. Becasue of the forward pivot point being placed right at the point, a swordsman will keep his opponent under threat as he moves the sword through wards and guards: the point will want to remain stationary as the hilt is manipulated, leading with the forward hand close to the guard. When the aft hand leads, the blade can be brought around quickly in preparation for a cut. The dynamic properties of the Principe makes for a powerful weapon that moves with effortless grace. The blade is wide with a slim flattened diamond cross section. The edges are thin and sharpened in a way that is reminiscent of a cold chisel. This design makes the most of the cutting power of a wide thin blade and the resilience of a chisel like edge.
Specifications
Overall length: 46″ (116.8 cm)
Blade length: 34 3/8″ (87.3cm)
Blade width: 3″ (7.62cm)
CoB: 3.25″ (8.25 cm)
CoP: 20.5″ (52 cm)
Weight: 3 lbs 15oz (1.8 kg)
This sword is a limited edition of 1000 swords worldwide.
$1,645.00 – $1,761.00
There are three ways to order:
· Order by Email
· Call our toll-free line at 1-888-806-4356
· Or click the button below to submit an order form
| Grip Option | Leather wrap, Black, Leather wrap, Red, Leather wrap, Oxblood, Leather wrap, Dark Brown, Leather wrap, Campaign Brown, Leather wrap, Custom Dye |
|---|---|
| Hilt Finish | Satin Polish, Blackened Parts, Antique |
