Plug Bayonet with Ivory Hilt and Leather Scabbard. Europe, XIX Century

This extremely beautiful hunting plug bayonet is a museum piece, made in Europe in the 19th century and in very good condition. The wonderful decoration that embellishes this piece is highly attention-drawing; the bayonet was undoubtedly a luxury article because of the quality materials it is made of. It has an ox-bone grip and a first-class steel blade, while the scabbard is made of leather. The cross-guard boasts a gorgeous engraved decoration with fine motives performed with great attention to detail; these motives can also be seen in the pommel, creating a striking hilt that looks as beautiful as the rest of the piece. These weapons were mainly used in big game hunting. They were mounted in muzzle-loading firearms with an only shot and were used to finish the shot-down game. This particular bayonet mounts a first-quality steel blade that still holds its edge. The fuller is carved with a filigree of tiny gaps and grooves that create a nice decoration in the sober metal surface. The bone grip is extremely white and neat, being in excellent condition and providing the piece with a remarkable elegance. The cross-guard is especially appealing, being made of hand-engraved metal that combines golden and silvery finishes. It is decorated with a crowned face in its center, flanked by two mythological animals that look like griffons, symmetrically disposed. These elements are all connected by volutes and branches carved in the metal, all of them boasting a great decorative beauty. The piece that connects the cross-guard to the grip is also engraved with classic symmetrical motives, as for the pommel. Last but not least, the leather scabbard mounts metal chappe and locket embellished with engraved golden and silvery motives that match the hilt. This magnificent-looking hunting bayonet is surely a singular piece because of its ancient age and remarkable beauty. Measurements: Bayonet: 17.7 in/45 cm. Scabbard: 9.4 in/24.5 cm.