This collection documents European and Colonial swords spanning from the 15th through the 19th centuries. The collection provides a detailed chronological study of sword development, from late medieval weapons through Renaissance martial innovations, and into the age of standardized military patterns.
A Spanish Colonial cup-hilt sword featuring distinctive characteristics of colonial manufacture, including a broader blade than European examples and modified hilt construction. The sword exhibits a well-balanced feel despite its heavier weight due to the iron cup construction. The hilt assembly features an ornate cup guard with detailed silver fretwork arranged in geometric patterns and floral motifs, complemented by straight quillons terminating in silver covered finials. The grip shows intricate silver nail work set against dark shagreen. Notable for its combination of imported blade technology with colonial craftsmanship, this piece represents a unique adaptation of European sword designs in the colonial context.
A well-crafted ceremonial two-handed sword (spadone a due mani) featuring elaborate heraldic decorations. The blade shows an aged patina consistent with its period, and the unsharpened ricasso section near the guard is characteristic of this sword type. The blade bears significant Milanese heraldic elements: the Visconti family's Biscione (a serpent appearing to swallow/birth a human figure) on one side and the Cross of St. Ambrose (Milan's coat of arms) on the other. The sword exhibits ceremonial rather than combat characteristics, with distinctive features including vestigially-placed flukes near the ricasso and a spiral wood grip. The overall construction suggests a formal guard weapon rather than a battlefield implement.
A ceremonial presentation sword from 1862 featuring a straight, bright-finished blade with a tapering profile typical of military presentation swords of the period. The blade has a bright polished finish and appears to be in good condition. When drawn from its scabbard, the sword displays a pleasing contrast between the bright steel blade and the ornate brass furniture.
This is a curved Indo-Persian sword exemplifying sophisticated craftsmanship through its koftigari decorative technique, which features silver or gilt inlay work on the hilt components. The blade displays intricate hunting scenes and animal attack motifs executed in detailed relief engraving. The sword combines the distinctive functional characteristics of a Talwar with luxury decorative elements. The koftigari technique is particularly evident in the silver gilt work on the pommel, grip, and guard sections. The blade is notable for its wider profile compared to related Middle Eastern sword types, and the overall execution demonstrates the high level of artistic and technical skill typical of premium Indo-Persian weapons.
This 17th-century field saber (Feldsäbel) exemplifies the military swords of Central Europe. The sword features a slightly curved single-edged blade decorated on both sides with the "Passauer Wolf" mark. The hilt assembly includes an iron knuckle-bow with an integrated thumb ring and a single shell guard embellished with a decorative copper alloy insert. The weapon's design balances protection with functionality, as evidenced by the comprehensive hand protection system combined with a relatively lightweight blade suitable for mounted combat.
