Germany, DJ. A German Hunting Association Cutlass, by Weyersburg, Kirschbaum & Co.

(Deutsche Jägerschaft Hirschfänger). A well-preserved German Hunting Association (DJ) cutlass, measuring 575 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 410 mm-long magnetic steel blade with a sharpened tip and unspoiled edges. The blade bears elaborate double-sided acid-etched designs, consisting of floral and arabesque imagery interspersed weapons, including axes, sabres, spears, shields, and helmets. The reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “WKC” for Weyersburg, Kirschbaum & Cie., Solingen, topped by the firm’s classic knight’s helmet logo. It sits securely within a gilded bronze upper crossguard, with each side presenting as a stylized deer’s leg with detailed hooves. The obverse also features a protruding and ribbed clamshell neatly covering the blade’s maker mark. A single piece of smooth polished staghorn comprises the handle grip, with three gilded bronze acorns set into the obverse of the handle. The cutlass completes with a flattened and ribbed pommel from which a central rounded stud emanates. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a boiled blackened leather shaft. Bronze fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat with staple-style reverse rivets. Emanating from the obverse of the throat fixtures is a downward-pointing hook consisting of a stylized acorn for the accommodation of an optional frog. The throat also retains a functional spring catch, securing the cutlass in place during storage. It is unmarked with the exception of a stamped number “5” on the reverse of both the tip and throat. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some oxidation of the blade and bronze elements with minor tarnishing of the latter, along with moderate fatigue of the scabbard leather. The cutlass is in an overall better than very fine condition.