Venetian Shiavona, the double-edged blade decorated with detailed engraving terminating in a cross configuration and stamped with the maker's mark at the ricasso. The classic basket hilt showing flattened, scrolling chiseled bars, the leather grip with cord winding, terminating with a cat’s head pummel. Italian, 17th century. Note: This type of sword was carried by the guard of the doge (chief magistrate) of Venice in the late 15th century. It is named for the members of this guard, who came from the Dalmatian Coast of present-day Croatia and were then called Schavoni in Venice.