The Schiavona Sword-- A 17th century Croatian Masterpiece

The Schiavona came from the 16th century sword of the Venetian Doge guard which largely consisted of Dalmatian-Croatian Slavonians (Schiavoni). The Schiavona is one of the most beautiful of all the basket-hilt swords. The Schiavona proved to be such an effective and attractive sword that it was soon in use all throughout Europe. Interestingly enough, in Drummond's famous book, "Ancient Scottish Weapons", there are several Schiavonas. This sword combined the full hand protection of a deep basket hilt made up of a number of connecting iron bars, and a very efficient blade that allowed both cut and thrust. During the 17th century, due to the trade with northern Italy, the “Schiavona” won a wide popularity in other European armies as well. Fitted with a long blade, it became the favorite sword of the heavy cavalry. It is also a magnificently well balanced and efficient soldier’s sword which certainly deserved its wide popularity among the 17th century cavalry.

Lord Stefan d'Gascon: Living in the later half of the 16th Century in London. Ex-mercenary from a number of large and small armies. Wandered the continent, [generally staying out of France.] Visited the Far East for a time while serving as a personal guard. One time city guard for the Dodge of Venice, where he developed a liking for the Schiavonia. [Never did master the language though.]  Schiavonia came in handy while  traversing the Sulu Sea and the Sea of Japan in 1549 with Father Francis Xavier’s ship.   Spent two years in the Japans with Fathers’ Francis, Cosme de Torres and Juan Fernandz.  Born of English stock in the Armagnac region of Gascony, near Auch. See Wagner, E. , Cut and Thrust Weapons, Hamlyn, UK (1969). Schiavona.