Smallsword

Unknown

ca. 1780–1810 · Steel, gold, textile · Arms and Armor

The smallsword was the typical civilian sidearm worn in Europe from about 1650 to 1800. It was both a deadly weapon and a stylish costume accessory for the fashionable gentleman. The materials of smallsword hilts vary considerably, according to the wealth and taste of their owner. In England, silver was the preferred medium, and the custom of hallmarking silver with date-letters provides the opportunity to document changing forms and ornament. English smallswords served as models for Colonial American silversmiths.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1780–1810

Medium

Steel, gold, textile

Culture

British

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Gift of Mrs. D. H. Schmidt, in memory of Theodore Offerman, 1937