Artwork Page for Small Sword

Details / Information for Small Sword

Small Sword

c.1750–60

after a design by Jean-Baptiste Oudry

(French, 1686–1755)
Culture
France, Paris
Medium
steel, gilt and russeted, copper, wood
Measurements
Overall: 105.4 cm (41 1/2 in.); Blade: 87.9 cm (34 5/8 in.); Guard: 7.9 cm (3 1/8 in.)
Weight: 440 g (15.52 oz.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Severance 1916.1094
Public Domain
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Location
210A Armor Court
Print
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Did You Know?

Although fully functional, this sword was used more for show—a perfect accessory for a fashionable gentleman having his portrait painted.

Description

The hilt, pommel, and guard of this sword are richly chiseled in low relief against a stippled gold background with animals (dogs, a stag, ducks) that appear to be adapted from paintings by Jean-Baptiste Oudry (1686–1775). An elegant court sword such as this was an important accessory to a gentleman's attire, yet remained functional—it could be withdrawn for an impromptu duel.
A smallsword stands vertically, crowned by a spherical pommel with raised golden motifs. The grip is wrapped in layered, braided wire, its textures alternating between dark and copper tones. A slender knuckle guard curves left to meet an oval shell base, while a short quillon extends right. Intricate golden patterns scroll across the dark metal hilt. Below, a straight steel blade tapers downward, a central groove running its length.

Small Sword

c.1750–60

Jean-Baptiste Oudry

(French, 1686–1755)
France, Paris

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