Basket-Hilted Rapier

Artistblade signed by Jacop Brach (German)

Date1575–1650

Mediumsteel, iron, brass and wood with modern restored grip

Dimensions114.3 × 100.3 cm (45 × 39 1/2 in.), 2 lb, 5 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Markings"JACOP BRACH" on an inlaid brass strip on both faces of the blade near the hilt. An indistinct stamped mark is found above this. In very small letters in the fullers on both sides is the legend "ME FECIT SOLINGEN." Both sides of the blade are also stamped with small Ws.

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.306

DescriptionLong, narrow, thrusting blade with long ricasso and double fullers. Openwork, symmetrical basket hilt of iron bars. All are flattish, with oval swellings having lobed, leaf-like edges (significant losses on many), at the bars' mid-length. There is a break in the weld at one of the joints of the bars. The crossguards are flat, turned slightly towards the blade, with rather lozenge terminals. Restored wire-wrapped wooden grip with Turk's heads at the ends. The globose pommel with button is writhen in a manner resembling a turban.
Label TextThis rare excavated sword combines a highly protective “basket” guard, typical of heavy cutting swords, with a light thrusting blade. The mismatch suggests that this sword was assembled from unrelated parts at some stage in its history. This process, called compositing, is often done today by antiques dealers to create more valuable swords out of less valuable components. Yet the consistent patina of the surface and harmonious execution suggest that this composite was assembled during the working life of the sword. This kind of recycling of components was quite common with swords, adding to the challenge of verifying the authenticity of any given example.ProvenanceGift to the Museum from Mrs. Horace L. Mayer (Williamstown, MA) on 26 September 1979. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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