Apr 27, 2020
Oct 22, 2010

Sword

Sword

c.1550

Steel, hilt russetted, leather grip

Overall: 100 cm (39 3/8 in.); Blade: 87 cm (34 1/4 in.); Quillions: 6.3 cm (2 1/2 in.); Grip: 11.5 cm (4 1/2 in.)

Weight: 1000 g (2.2 lbs.)

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Severance 1916.1715

Location

Did you know?

There are three unidentified marks inlaid on the ricasso or the unsharpened blade just above the guard.

Description

The hilt of this sword is russeted, a decorative technique popular in France and England that imparts a brownish color to the surface of the metal. It was achieved by a chemical process that involved treating the steel surface with a mild corrosive medium. As an added benefit the process also helps protect against rust.

See also

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