A very fine enameled gurade, gift of the russian cavalry to Ras Makonnen dating: circa 1900 provenance: Russia, Elegant, slightly-curved, tipped, single-and short false-edged blade, with a double fuller near the back on almost all its length. Areas with deep pitting and notches on the edge. Both sides with remains of damask pattern. A long inscription in Cyrillic characters on the right side meaning (translated from Russian) 'To the brave defender of the Freedom of his country, the Hero of the battle of Amba-Alagi, His Highness Ras Makonen', a different inscription in Amharic characters on the opposite side. Fine silver hilt consisting of two segments, Russian silver hallmarks clearly visible on one side ('88' next to a mark of a city), 'AP' in Cyrillic at the bottom, perhaps the imperial eagle and a short, not clearly legible inscription at the top. Near the blade other hallmarks. Decorated with floral filigree patterns filled with polychrome enamels on the two widened ends. Some signs of use and time, small missing parts at the color. The back of the hilt featuring gold-color plate, another mark and a short inscription. White metal cap engraved with spirals. length 101,5 cm.