The schiavona was a renaissance sword that became popular in Italy in 16th and 17th century. Stemming from the 16th century sword of the Venetian Doge guard, the name came from the fact that the guard consisted largely of Dalmatian Slavs (Schiavoni). Classified as a true broadsword this war sword had a wider blade than its contemporary civilian rapiers. It was basket hilted (often with imbedded quillion for an upper guard) and double edged. A surviving blade measures 93.2 cm X 3.4 cm X 0.45 cm and sports two fullers running about 1/4 of the way down the blade. Weighing in at around 1.1 kg, this blade was useful for both cut and thrust; it became popular among the armies of those who traded with Italy during the 17th century. This became the weapon of choice for many heavy cavalry. Compare with the English mortuary sword.