Guard of a Smallsword
Dateabout 1655–1665
Mediumiron
Dimensions7.3 × 7.3 cm (2 7/8 × 2 7/8 in.), 3 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Terms
Object number2014.422
DescriptionInterior and exterior depict battle scenes with mounted soldiers. Exterior executed in deep relief, shallow relief on interior.Label TextAs the swept-hilt style gave way to solid hand protection, the sculptural esthetics of the rapier were replaced by an emphasis on surface decoration. This unusual example falls midway between the two, with elaborate chiseled reliefs of cavalry battles mounted on the exterior and interior surfaces.ProvenancePurchased by Museum from Sumner Healey (NYC) on February 1, 1933, his #9. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on view
about 1700–1710
