An exceptional example, with elegantly wrenched pommel and cup with rolled and profiled rim, superbly engraved overall, with beaded guard and wrenched wooden grip with original twisted wire wrap and turkshead knots intact. The long, straight blade of hexagonal section tapering gently to the tip, the maker’s name chiseled at the forte, HORTUNCE ACQUIR. Beginning of the 17th century. Very minor wear. The blade likely made in Spain or in Naples by a Spanish smith, possibly named Hortensio Aquirre. The engraved hilt shows a characteristically fine Italian hand. Ex-Hessink’s, Netherlands, January 27, 2007, lot 1305. Overall length 119cm. Condition II