German Executioner Sword Marks 16th century Solingen Maker Marks Blades

[Jim McDougall]

Originally Posted by theswordcollector

Here are photos of the swords. I would like to thank you guys for taking the time to discuss these pieces . I was thinking Wundes also but there is no knights head I can see stamped on this blade? Their marks did vary as many black smiths worked under their masters through the sword making process. The same priciple with Japanese swords. The sword is very good quality for the period and forged well.

Thank you very much for the full photos of these two outstanding examples!
As you note, there were apprentices and varying workmen in the shops which can easily account for variations in spelling in inscriptions as well as deviations in markings. Many markings and inscriptions were popularized within the industry and used rather collectively with apparant favorites with certain makers shops.