FRENCH LIGHT RAPIER C.1790

A good example of a type which became popular in Southern Europe for only about a decade, in response to Italian sword techniques. It has an iron hilt with oval guard which is thickened and slightly cusped for about an inch on each side edge. The cross guard comprises two drooping tear shaped quillons angled with the counter guard to form blade traps. The copper wire bound grip provided good purchase with quick response and the elongated pommel extended the counterbalance without adding weight. The 29 1/2" diamond section blade is expanded at the forte and etched with scrolling foliage. Scattered frosty to light pitting with considerable original blued finish remaining on the hilt. This sword is made for speed and agility and its weight is trimmed and apportioned to the fraction of an ounce to maximize those capabilities.