Silver Hilted Smallsword

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Status

Not on view

DateProbably 1754

Maker Unknown

Geography Made - England

Medium/TechniqueSteel, silver

DimensionsOverall: 38 5/8 in. (98.11 cm) Overall (blade length): 32 1/8 in. (81.6 cm) Overall (blade width (at forte)): 1 1/4 in. (3.18 cm)

Credit LineGift: Jess and Grace Pavey Fund, 2017

Object numberM-5526

DescriptionSilver hilted smallsword, closely resembling George Washington’s 1753 silver hilted smallsword, traditionally known as the “Braddock sword”. Colichemarde blade of sharply tapering hollow triangular section, etched on both sides of the forte with panels of strap work enclosing, respectively, a scallop shell and a star, and a scallop shell and two hearts. Mounted to hilt comprised of asymmetrical double shell guard, with raised borders, quillon block, arms, knuckle guard, lobed rear quillon, globular pommel with button, and grip bound with silver ribbon and two forms of twisted silver wire. Marked with indistinct London hallmarks, probably for 1754.

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