Design for a Sword Hilt, Scabbard, and Belt Fittings

Eugène Julienne

ca. 1840–50 · Watercolor and ink on paper · Arms and Armor

This is a rare example of an original mid-nineteenth century French design for an elaborate presentation sword in a historical revival style, including Renaissance and Neoclassical motifs. It is attributed to Eugène Julienne, a prolific designer of Sèvres porcelain from 1838 to 1848 and whose designs for jewelry, silver and a wide variety of ornament for the decorative arts were issued in an influential series of publications during his lifetime. Swords of this type were produced only as special commissions and often combined the skills of artists, cutlers, steel-chiselers, goldsmiths, and jewelers.

Artist

Eugène Julienne

Date

ca. 1840–50

Medium

Watercolor and ink on paper

Culture

French, Paris

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Purchase, Kenneth and Vivian Lam Gift, 2016