Puttering Around - Submitted by SeesawSiya

Consecrated sword with scabbard and baldric (1674–1676)

Gifted to Polish king Jan III Sobieski by Pope Innocent XI.

Wawel Royal Castle – State Art Collection

Blessed swords were ceremonial gifts traditionally presented by popes to Catholic rulers and military leaders in recognition of their service to the Church and the defense of Christendom. These swords were often accompanied by a consecrated hat and richly decorated with precious metals and gemstones.

Type: Consecrated sword

Overall length: 200.6 cm

Blade width: 6.8 cm

Origin: Rome, Papal States (1674–1676)

Material: steel, silver-gilt, wood, leather, silk, velvet, satin, gold thread, silver thread, pearl, ruby

Etruscan duck askos

325 - 275 BCE