Featured A very small smallsword or court sword.

I have just bought this silver hilted sword.


The design is that of the 17th C. with extended quillons and a cup guard and bow, but the odd thing is that it is about the right size for a 12 or 13 year old child.



Looks to be a decent quality square form blade.



And a well worked hilt which is very probably silver.



but it is only 70cm or about 27 1/2 inches long. It was listed as a ceremonial sword but the saleroom are no weapons experts. I was wondering why anyone would make a 3/4 size ceremonial sword. I have had the occasional ceremonial sword, masonic and the like, all full size.

It cost me about £180, which will not break the bank if it is nothing interesting. When I get my hands on it I will get pictures of some details such as what might be a maker's mark on the blade.

My theory is that it is a child's sword from the period when children, especially of the affluent classes, wore smaller versions of adult clothing with accessories.

Any thoughts welcome, as usual.

I have a feeling I may have bought it because when I was a wee lad, the only sword I had was made from sticks of wood, and I would have given absolutely anything for a real sword just my size.

 

I think you are absolutely correct..child's court sword and a simply splendid example. love it!

 

It IS beautiful!!!!! Hopefully you'll find some marks on it when you get it in hand!!!

 

My hands are small and I'd love it too!

 

I don't "do" swords, but I'd have jumped on that too. If that thing is a genuine child's sword, it's worth more around here than an adult version. The kid swords were made in smaller numbers, and fewer of them survived.

 

It may be a child's blade....but if it's this child....get outta her way...fast !!!!!

 

Best not tell her her that she looks a bit fat in that, then.

 

test it with a magnet, horseshoe nails are made of iron .