[OldMcDonald]

Here's an interesting piece (to me anyway) and I'm not sure how to classify it.

It appears to been made for ceremonial purposes, and is cast in solid brass.
Also it's damaged - looks as if it's been thrust into a fire and bent off at the tip.

I did notice a similar looking piece in Rembrandt's painting; the Nightwatch, which has the Lieutenant holding a type of staff - not an exact likeness.

Any ideas of it's age or purpose and what would you describe it as?

Regards, David