Scarf Sword (smallsword)
Culturepossibly
Netherlandish
Datemid 1600s
Mediumsteel, iron and wood
Dimensions94.9 × 80.6 cm (37 3/8 × 31 3/4 in.), 1 lb, 4 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.321
DescriptionDouble-edge tapering lozenge-section blade which appears to have been reshaped. Traces of etched decoration survive on both faces of forte. Iron hilt consisting of flat quillon block with short quillons expanding into quadrangular head with short button & broadly carved decoration. Badly crushed open side ring with balustered turn at mid-width fitted on obverse. Pommel of flattened spherical form with somewhat rough-carved design encircling it. Restored grip.Label TextThe scarf sword and dish-hilt rapier represent transitional styles between the rapier and the smallsword.ProvenanceGeorge L. Maxwell; purchased by John W. Higgins on November 28, 1928 from Anderson Galleries (NY), lot 70. Given to the Museum on July 1, 1954. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on view
about 1600–1650
