EUROPEAN ROCOCO SMALL-SWORD CA.1740

This hilt of this mid-18th c. small-sword is silver-washed hand-chased bronze. The quality of the decorative work is quite good, featuring classical figures, hunting motifs and florals. Every aspect of the hilt is decorated en suite. An unusual and interesting feature is the small eagle head finial on the pommel.

The blade is rapier-like, stiff, 78 cm long, rhomboid in cross-section, with a deep central fuller on either side. The balance on this lovely sword is outstanding.