Western Europe, Spain, ca. 18th to 19th century CE. A handsome steel and brass smallsword with a curving knuckle guard and a straight, double-edged blade that tapers to a point. A finger guard with curved arms points downward toward the blade. A quillon with a round finial projects from one side. A slender and curved knuckle guard protrudes above one arm and connects to the brass pommel. The tang is covered with an iron hilt that has a diamond patterned, textured surface to facilitate grip. The smallsword was a trimmed down version of the rapier and was ideal for wearing regularly as a status symbol as well as for dueling. Smallswords were also a standard weapon for infantry soldiers because they were lightweight and great for thrusting attacks. The smallsword was the single most popular officer's weapon during the late colonial period in North America and the Spanish borderlands. Size: 36.675" L x 3.675" W (93.2 cm x 9.3 cm); blade only: 30.75" L x .8" W (78.1 cm x 2 cm)
Provenance: private Glorieta, New Mexico, USA collection
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#160481
Condition
Minor nicks on blade and dark patina. Pommel is slightly loose. One finger guard is bent.