Miniature Vintage Antique Rapier Sword Letter Opener With Case A MASTERPIECE

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Miniature replica blades are very rare, and in this condition they are incredibly hard to find.This, however, is on a completely different level; astronomically more intricate and finely constructed than common examples. It's clearly been hand-made, and a very long time ago.I'd call this pattern rapier just a few steps prior to the transitional period; between 1600 and 1650 AD.It has a full swept hilt, and also features a basket guard. The blade itself hints at a very early smallsword profile. It's something one might find on a personally commissioned blade for practical, yet still civilian carry.The real thing would not have been cheap (and neither is this), as the pattern and lack of color clearly indicates a stylish , functional sword built for use, rather than simply for jaunty, peacock-strutting ornamentation.Further evidence is found in the length of the blade itself; deliberately chosen. It is far shorter than many rapiers of the time, and would have been specified by an experienced swordsman, rather than the common man of the era, who favored extremely long blades that were less than practical.We'll never know just what the artisan who crafted this used for inspiration, but whatever it was, that thing meant business.It is likewise impossible to date this blade within reason , though the inspiration is patently obvious. The read more

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