HALBERD SHEATH

Description The sheath, with an almond-shaped section, probably covered the upper part of a halberd. At the top it has a composite decoration of three animals: above a horned hybrid head perches a bird with its head facing backwards; behind, clinging to the edge of the sheath, a tiger in profile is also depicted with its head facing backwards. The animals are engraved with volute motifs, inlaid in silver. The silver decoration of the tubular graft depicts five dragon heads (?) superimposed in a geometric style. In the lower part of the sheath there is a raised flange which perhaps served to facilitate the engagement of the rod. Two further slight engraved lines divide the decoration in half, between this flange and the upper part of the sheath.