Monique : European Fine and Decorative Arts
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Original Presentation Script
Greetings, antiques and collectibles enthusiasts. Presenting this European Neoclassical Period Brass Hilt Smallsword. This elegant weapon, a gentleman's accessory, dates from circa 1780 to 1820. It features a decorative brass hilt with an urn-shaped pommel and a wire-wrapped grip, alongside a tapering steel blade. The blade's forte reveals an engraved 'T.C.' mark within a cartouche, a potential maker's signature. Despite some grip wire loss and blade corrosion, its authentic patina confirms its genuine age. Valued between $400 and $800, this piece offers a glimpse into 18th-century martial arts and fashion. What historical stories do you imagine this smallsword could tell? Share your thoughts below!
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Item Report
European Neoclassical Period Brass Hilt Smallsword
By: Unknown (marked 'T.C.')
Style: Neoclassical Period
Origin: European or American
Materials: Brass, steel, wood, wire
Age: Circa 1780-1820
Condition: Good (significant wear to grip wire, blade corrosion and pitting, but structurally sound with good hilt patina)
Value: Authentic: $400 - $800; Reproduction: $50 - $150
Maker's Marks / Writing: Initials 'T.C.' within an oval cartouche on the blade forte.
Date: 2026-07-04 19:38:05.496950
Description:
An antique smallsword featuring a brass hilt with an urn-shaped pommel, a D-guard, and a shell-guard. The grip is wrapped in wire, now partially loose. The tapering steel blade is decorated with engraved motifs near the forte, including a central cartouche with 'T.C.' initials.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
This is a genuine period smallsword, likely from the late 18th or early 19th century, reflecting the Neoclassical aesthetic. The brass hilt shows appropriate patina and wear consistent with age. The blade, while corroded, retains its engraved decoration and a visible maker's mark, 'T.C.', which could be a key to further identification. The loose wire wrap on the grip is a common condition for such antique pieces.
Individual Images:
- hilt front view
- whole sword
- detail of pommel and guard
- detail of blade forte with mark
- detail of shell guard underside
- detail of blade and hilt side
- detail of blade engraving
- detail of blade tip
Provenance:
N/A
Condition:
Good (significant wear to grip wire, blade corrosion and pitting, but structurally sound with good hilt patina)
Identification Score: 95%
The form, materials, and decorative elements of the hilt and blade are highly characteristic of a smallsword from the late 18th to early 19th century. The 'T.C.' mark is a strong identifier, though the specific maker is not immediately apparent without further research.
Authenticity Score: 90%
The overall patina on the brass, the corrosion and wear on the steel blade, and the construction methods (e.g., the hand-engraved blade and wire-wrapped grip) are all consistent with a genuine antique of the stated period. There are no signs of modern fabrication or reproduction.
Image Memory Note
None None
Keywords
Smallsword, Court Sword, Neoclassical, Federal Period, Brass Hilt, Steel Blade, Wire Wrap, Antique Weapon, European, American
Comparables (Similar Items)
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