French Smallsword

Illustration

Arienne King
by Metropolitan Museum of Art
published on 25 March 2021
French Smallsword Download Full Size Image

A French smallsword from the 18th Century CE. Smallswords developed from the rapier, but were lighter and more refined. Perfect for duelling and fencing, the often elegantly decorated swords became the ubiquitous weapon of gentlemen in the 18th Century CE.

Steel blade. Hilt and scabbard decorated with silver, gold, wood, textile, and fishskin. Made in Paris by C. Liger (l. c. 1770–93 CE). Dated c. 1780 CE. 96.8 cm (38 1/8 in) x 11.4 cm (4 1/2 in). Weight: 368.54 g (13 oz). Collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

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APA Style

Art, M. M. o. (2021, March 25). French Smallsword. World History Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://www.worldhistory.org/image/13726/french-smallsword/

Chicago Style

Art, Metropolitan Museum of. "French Smallsword." World History Encyclopedia. Last modified March 25, 2021. https://www.worldhistory.org/image/13726/french-smallsword/.

MLA Style

Art, Metropolitan Museum of. "French Smallsword." World History Encyclopedia. World History Encyclopedia, 25 Mar 2021. Web. 22 Feb 2025.

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