"Crab-claw" Hilted Rapier

Cultureblade German

Culturehilt Italian

Date1620–1670

Mediumsteel, iron, brass, wood and copper

Dimensions105.4 × 90.2 cm (41 1/2 × 35 1/2 in.), 1 lb, 14 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.494

DescriptionSteel double-edge hollow-ground hexagonal section blade in forte becoming flattened hexagonal section tapering to tip. Forte reverse with brass inlaid 'running wolf' mark. Blackened iron crab-claw hilt with single set of curling crossguards turned towards blade. Open obverse side ring riveted to large shell-like fluted plate attached to larger side ring of similar form. Tall pommel faceted & tapering to flat button. Stout turned base. Wooden grip wrapped with copper wire, with copper-wire braided "Turk's head" below.
ProvenanceAngelo Peyron (Florence, Italy) collection purchased by Museum on November 4, 1954 from Savoy Art & Auction Galleries (NYC), sale no. 450, lot no. 37. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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