Cutlass

Cultureblade perhaps European

Dateabout 1775–1783

Mediumsteel, horn

Dimensions71.1 × 56.5 cm (28 × 22 1/4 in.), 1 lb, 7 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.431

DescriptionSteel single edge triangular section blade gently curving along cutting edge to point. Crude iron hilt formed as elliptical shell recurving from pointed rear quillon to closed knuckle guard whose flatttened end is secured to tang of blade. No visible marks. Guard perhaps once blackened. Curved horn grip with thick cylindrical iron ferrules at ends.
Label TextAt the time of the Revolution, Colonial Americans had very limited capacity for sword production. The blade on this example was made with European steel, but the crude hilt was probably produced by a local craftsman in response to the needs of the Revolutionary War.ProvenancePurchased by Museum from Parke-Bernet Galleries, Inc. (NYC) on November 25, 1953, sale no. 1473. Paid $75 for lot of swords. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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