Description
This weapon is a form of the cinquedea, a broad-bladed dagger whose length approaches that of a short sword. Its wide blade, measuring 18 inches long and nearly 3¼ inches across at the base, tapers to a keen point, allowing it to serve both cutting and thrusting purposes on the battlefield or in close quarters. The blade bears several fullers,those narrow grooves forged along the steel,to reduce weight while maintaining structural integrity, a traditional technique used by bladesmiths to achieve a balance between strength and maneuverability. The grip is fashioned from nickel and treated with a darkened, antiqued finish, which not only shields the metal from corrosion but also offers a firm grasp during use. Historically, a weapon like this would be worn slung from a belt at the small of the back, set at an angle to facilitate a swift draw. This example includes a scabbard, reflecting the cinquedea’s dual role as a practical sidearm and a mark of status among Renaissance civilians and soldiers alike.
- Overall length: 24 inches
- Blade length: 18 inches; width: 3¼ inches; thickness: 3⁄16 inch
- Weight: 2 pounds 8 ounces
Fun fact: The name “cinquedea” means “five fingers” in Italian, referring to the blade’s width roughly matching the span of a hand, making it a striking and distinctive weapon of the Renaissance period.
