Antique Spanish Officer's Cuban Machete in Very Good Condition. Germany, XIX Century

This fine antique weapon is a machete used during the Cuban War of Independence (1868-1898). The machete was made in Germany for the Spanish Army and is signed and numbered. It is in quite good condition and comes with its original brown leather scabbard. Both pieces are really well preserved and create a beautiful and interesting article. The machete mounts steel blade and hilt; the steel grip is covered of dark brown leather.The rain guard (the part of the blade closer to the hilt) bears an engraved inscription in capital letters, partially erased. It reads: THEILE & QUACK, ELBERFELD GARANTIZADO. The word garantizado means guaranteed in Spanish. Close to it we can see the number 457 clearly stamped in the metal. During the Cuban War of Independence there were a series of weapon manufacturers which were located in Germany and supplied the Spanish army in Cuba. In the city of Elberfeld there was another renowned weapon manufacturer, Fernando Esser; they also supplied the Spanish army in Cuba with machetes like this. The machete that we can see in these images stands out for its beautiful making and elegant design. Close to the mentioned inscription we can see the remains of an engraved motive, depicting a parrot-like bird. The steel hilt is decorated with engraved motives, nice and delicate, depicting oak leaves and acorns. The leather that wraps the grip is very well preserved and so is the twisted wire that reinforces it and holds it in its place. Last but not least, the leather scabbard preserves the original steel locket and chape. This stunning antique Cuban machete is a piece with a fascinating history behind, and a beautiful item too. Measurements: Length: 29.5 in / 75 cm. Length of Blade and Scabbard: 24.8 in / 63 cm.