This is the classic Forestry cutlass worn by senior Foresters (denoted by the ivory grip and the gold/green knot) across Europe from the early 18th century onwards. They continued in use through the Weimar era and Third Reich, only latterly losing the by-knife. Lower ranks wore cutlasses with a stag horn grip and a plain green knot.
It is marked P D Luneschloss Solingen on the back edge. This firm (1810-1965) was a major Solingen concern and exported profusely for foreign government contracts, supplying both sides in the US Civil War, for instance.
The mounts are gilt bronze, most of the gilding having long perished, the scabbard is leather, the grip is of African elephant ivory and the blade retains most of its factory finish, with the by-knife retaining all its finish with a few minor stains. The main blade has typical Forestry scenes (running deer in woodland etc). The gilding on the base of the bullion knot is in good shape, but it has worn down to the silver base on the strap.
NB: For buyers outside the EU or UK, a CITES certificate is needed for export.
If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.
[Edged Weapons : Swords : German : 19th Century]
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