Latin America, Mexico, La Paz, second half of the 19th century CE. An antique Mexican fighting dagger from La Paz, Mexico with a long carbon steel blade and a point known as a "Scorpion Tip" given its resemblance to a poisonous scorpion tail. The blade is beautifully engraved on both sides. One side presents a bird, and the word 'VIVA' with leaf motifs, while the opposite side features an engraved dog and the word 'LA PAZ' with leaf motifs. Together these inscriptions translate as, "Live Peace" - quite an ironic statement given the dangerous nature of this weapon. The finely carved horn hilt is secured to the blade tang via four iron rivets and ends in a carved wolf's head with a guard chain in its mouth. The wonderful leather scabbard presents traditional Mexican motifs and workmanship but is of exceedingly high quality, extensively embellished with fine embossed decoration. Size: overall length 15.75" L (40 cm); blade measures 11.5" L (29.2 cm); hilt measures 4.25" L (10.8 cm)

La Paz was known for pearl fishing from around 1740 until 1940 and had become the leading producer of the world's pearl fishing industry by the early 20th century. La Paz is also of historical interest, because when William Walker set out with 45 men to conquer the Mexican territories of Baja California Territory and Sonora State on October 15, 1853, he captured La Paz. Subsequently, from January 10, 1854 to May 8, 1854. La Paz was the capital of William Walker's Republic of Sonora. This project would eventually come to an end due to pressure from the Mexican government and lack of US support.

Provenance: private Nevada, USA collection

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#152208

Minute nicks to blade edges. Scuffs to blade, but engraved inscriptions and imagery are still strong. Wooden hilt is in excellent condition. Leather scabbard is excellent save 1.5" tear just below the tip.