Sword
Date1650–1700
Mediumsteel, blackened iron, wood and copper wire
Dimensions93.3 × 78.4 cm (36 3/4 × 30 7/8 in.), 1 lb 4 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.327
DescriptionSteel broadsword blade reshaped to rapier form for mounting in present hilt. Hollow-ground hexagonal section blade in forte becoming flattened hexagonal section over rest of length. Blade has been corroded and heavily cleaned.Hilt for small-sword similar to WAM 2014.129. Blackened iron hilt with bivalve shell with molded perimeter. Crudely punched with circular medallions pierced with basketwork & having birds to either side. Strong sleeve with arms of the hilt & short straight crossguards having swollen conical terminals. Wooden grip tapering to ends, fitted with copper wire "Turk's heads." Crude iron oblate pommel tapering to top without button & having plain necked base below.
ProvenanceGeorge L. Maxwell purchased by John W. Higgins on November 30, 1928 from Anderson Galleries (NY), lot 178. Given to the Museum on July 1, 1954. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on view
about 1700–1710
about 1600–1650
about 1650–1700
