Fine German Silver Hilt Smallsword, ca. 1750

Description

Featuring hilt of exquisitely crafted cast, chased, and pierced silver, consisting of asymmetrical shell guard, pas d’ane, reverse scroll quillon, and knuckle bow joined to the ovoid pommel; the central motif of classical urns in oval frames, surrounded by foliage on a pierced lattice background. Grip wrapped with alternating single-strand and twisted silver wire with silver wire Turks heads. Slender double-edged 33 3/4” (86 cm) blade of hollow-ground triangular section; engraved with stands of arms, foliage, man-in-the-moon, several sets of initials, and lattice ricasso. Superior workmanship with the silver showing crisp detail in as-new condition; the blade showing minor wear and areas of light pitting and age staining. Overall length 40 3/8” (102.5 cm).