Introduction

The shashka is a guardless single-edged saber that probably originated in the Caucasus around the early 18th century. It was subsequently adopted by the cossacks and the Russian military as well.

This example

A nice Caucasian shashka, exhibiting Dagestani workmanship.

The blade has two wide, single grooves at the base, the upper grooves split into two about one-third up the blade. This groove configuration is also seen on some Polish sabers and, curiously, also in Vietnam. The surface within the grooves is left rough.

The hilt, of typical form, is made of silver with engraved decoration and inlays of niello. 

The scabbard is made of wood and covered with waxed fabric. It is mounted with a set of silver mounts inlaid with niello decoration, matching the hilt. The scabbard still retains its suspension straps, each with its own silver niello hook.

Romanov monogram

The pommel is adorned with the monogram of Nicholas II or Nikolai II Alexandrovich Romanov, last Emperor of Russia, King of Congress Poland and Grand Duke of Finland. He ruled from 1894 until he was forced to abdicate the throne on March 15, 1917. He was executed by the Bolsheviks on 17 July 1918.

Markings

A name and date is inscribed on the scabbard mouthpiece.

On the top are the initials:

"A M"

Perpendicular to the initials is in Russian a name and date:

"Melnikovy

1912"

Condition

Some now stabilized corrosion to the blade and some damage to the scabbard wood and fabric. Complete, though, and with all mounts in good condition.