*Spanish, Mid-20th Century, Pair of Toledo Souvenir Daggers with Sheaths (2)*
A pair of decorative souvenir daggers from Toledo, Spain, each finely decorated in the traditional Toledo style with gilt and enamelled geometric and foliate designs. Both are marked “Toledo” on the blade, signifying their origin in the historic Spanish sword-making city.
The first measures 19.5 cm overall with an 11 cm blade; the second 20.5 cm overall with an 11.5 cm blade. Each retains its original leather-covered sheath, fitted with gilt and painted mounts en suite with the hilts. The grips are turned blackened wood with ribbed sections, finished with gilt pommels and decorative pierced crossguards.
Historical Note:
The city of Toledo has been a renowned centre of European sword-making since the Middle Ages, famed for its exceptionally hard yet flexible steel blades. By the 19th and 20th centuries, as demand for swords in warfare declined, Toledo’s workshops turned increasingly to the production of ceremonial, decorative, and souvenir blades. These smaller daggers were popular tourist pieces, especially in the mid-20th century, when Toledo’s reputation for craftsmanship was widely marketed internationally.
They represent the continuation of Toledo’s ancient tradition of damasquinado—the art of inlaying and gilding metalwork with intricate decorative patterns. While intended for the souvenir trade rather than combat, they embody the same cultural heritage and artistry that made Toledo blades famous for centuries.
*Condition*
Both daggers remain in good condition with age-related wear. The gilt and painted decoration to the hilts and blades is intact though rubbed in areas. The scabbards are original, with surface wear and a small split along the leather on one dagger but retaining their decorated gilt mounts. Some verdigris is visible to the brass fittings. The blades show light tarnish consistent with age. Overall, a well-preserved and appealing pair of Toledo daggers. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
*In order to complete the online purchase we will require a picture/scan of a photo ID (Driving Licence, Passport or an official document with a recent picture). If you don't posses any such document please call to buy. If we consider that the proof of ID is incorect or insuficient, we reserve the right to cancel the transaction.
*We also reserve the right to cancel the transaction with a full refund if there is any suspicion that the provided item will be used in any way contrary to the laws and legislation of UK.
