Saber blade with the Likeness of Sigismund III Vasa

Turkey, Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, 17th century

Material: Steel, gold

Techniques: Forging, grinding, polishing, damasking (inlaying)

Dimensions: Length 90 cm


This 90 cm blade, commonly referred to as a "Sigismund sword," is forged from steel. It is most likely a Turkish product from the 17th century, with a pronounced curve and a distinctly martial character. The blade features a dorsal fuller and main wide fuller. The widest point of the blade is the forte, with a clearly defined false cutting edge and a delicately shaped hammel, decorated with openwork and inlaid gold.


The external face of the blade is adorned with gold inlay, depicting Sigismund III Vasa, along with his name and the abbreviation of his titles: Sigismundus RPMDLRPMES (Sigismundus Rex Poloniae Magnus Dux Lituaniae, Russiae, Prussiae Mazowiae et Samogotiae). His official title reads: "By the grace of God, King of Poland, Grand Duke of Lithuania, Ruthenia, Prussia, Mazovia, Samogitia, and also hereditary King of Sweden, Goths, and Vandals".


On the internal face of the blade, there is a gold-stamped inscription: Fortunam Deus Dat Gloria Et Victoria Vi Adipiscitur Mea Fortitudine et Aab Amicus et Ab Inimicis Gloria Afficiour ("God gives fortune, fame and victory are achieved through strength; I enjoy glory among friends and foes alike through my courage"); next to the inscription are eight gold dots and the date 1598. The blade shows signs of combat use, and there is no manufacturer's hallmark.