Very rare Italian ceremonial sword with gilding and mother-of-pearl from the 15th century. The broad blade of sharply tapering form consistent with Oakeshott Type XV, forged with a high median ridge and marked with a trefoil at either side. The forte finely worked with figures on both sides, probably Biblical, and inlaid with gold. The stepped grip of horn inlaid with mother of pearl panels, lightly-recurved guard and fig-shaped pommel of copper heavily gilt, superbly engraved overall in elaborate vine motifs. Late 15th century. Chiseling and inlay at forte showing wear, grip lacking one mother of pearl panel. Provenance: Deaccessioned from the John Woodman Higgins Armory Museum, Worcester, Ma. Acquired by the Higgins from the American Art Association Auction, New York, of October 10-15, 1932, from the Morosini Collection, lot 525, Auctions Imperial Inc, May 20, 2011, lot 100. A magnificent museum quality item. Height: 111 cm;