An Rare Exquisite 17th Century French Ceremonial Dagger with Pierced Scabbard.

An Rare Exquisite 17th Century French Ceremonial Dagger with Pierced Scabbard. This remarkable 17th-century French ceremonial dagger is a testament to the virtuosic bone-carving traditions of the Baroque era. The weapon features a characteristic steel flame-bladed or wavy edge, a style prized for its visual complexity and symbolic association with ceremonial use. The hilt is masterfully sculpted from bone, terminating in a pommel carved as a serene human head, while the fluted grip leads to a delicate crossguard designed with petal-like lobes. The scabbard is the piece's crowning achievement, featuring intricate "a jour" or pierced openwork carving that reveals a rich red velvet lining. The narrative program on the scabbard panels is exceptionally detailed; On one side there is a bull's head on a shield, possibly a noble coat of arms, a court scene below it, below an image of Hercules. The opposing face depicts a portrait bust within a medallion, a dynamic equestrian scene of a knight in combat, and a standing soldier in traditional 17th-century armor with a shield and spear. Finished with a decorative quatrefoil, this artifact is a superb example of French courtly decorative arts, combining military iconography with refined luxury. Length 42 cm. The item is in good condition.