European Small Sword

European Small Sword

One of the interesting aspects of the small sword was the blade. Designed for thrusting, its cross section assumed many forms - principally elliptical, triangular, diamond, and hexagonal. This one is an undulating "flamboyant" pattern. It is primarily for decoration, but has both edges sharpened, and a flattened center ridge. The pierced steel hilt displays open panoplies of arms on both shells of the guard, plus a wire and band wrapped rectangular hilt. Note, too, that the pas d'ane continue to flatten.

Length: 37 1/4"
Blade: 30 1/4" x 13/16"
Weight: 0.6 lb.
Hilt: Steel

George C. Neumann, Swords and Blades of the American Revolution, (Harrisburg: Stackpole Books, 1973), 130. (206.S)

c. 1740-1750

George C. Neumann Collection, Valley Forge National Historical Park

VAFO 401

Photograph