FRENCH SILVER HILT SMALLSWORD C.1770

Made for a military officer, displaying military and classical arms and armor in oval panels to the pommel, grip, knuckle bow, quillon block and inside of the shells. The balance intricately decorated in patterns of pyramids, chevrons and other minute shapes, a precursor to the fully studded steel hilt examples of two decades later. 35 1/4" triangular blade representing an extreme in length for the type, etched, blued and gilt first quarter with foliage and arms. Gold and blue both somewhat weak but present. The balance of the blade crisp with old preservative. Hilt excellent with remains of the heavy fire gilt in protected places.