1730 Rapier or a Victorian 'Copy' .........any ideas?

Jim McDougall · 25th November 2006, 05:49 AM

Despite all the BBQ tool analysis

JUDL!! I cant resist throwing in my 2cents on this 'item'.

I am inclined to agree with Marc on the 'Victorian' period assessment, but am wondering if this might be a theatrical weapon. It seems that some of the weapons made for 'period' performances were made sturdily, although not necessarily completely accurate. While this sword is made to appear to be a cuphilt rapier, it is clearly not intended to withstand comparison to the authentic examples. It would however, present the desired effect as part of a costume in a performance.

Just speculation on my part. It seems like many of the so called wallhangers or reproductions for gentlemans parlors during Victorian times at least made viable attempt at a degree of authenticity. Many of these were easily passed off as authentic examples by antique dealers in the 20th century to unwary buyers.

Katana, even if this is a Victorian period sword, for whatever purpose, it still clearly has its own story to tell....

All the best,
Jim

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25th November 2006, 05:49 AM	#13
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,192	Despite all the BBQ tool analysis JUDL!! I cant resist throwing in my 2cents on this 'item'. I am inclined to agree with Marc on the 'Victorian' period assessment, but am wondering if this might be a theatrical weapon. It seems that some of the weapons made for 'period' performances were made sturdily, although not necessarily completely accurate. While this sword is made to appear to be a cuphilt rapier, it is clearly not intended to withstand comparison to the authentic examples. It would however, present the desired effect as part of a costume in a performance. Just speculation on my part. It seems like many of the so called wallhangers or reproductions for gentlemans parlors during Victorian times at least made viable attempt at a degree of authenticity. Many of these were easily passed off as authentic examples by antique dealers in the 20th century to unwary buyers. Katana, even if this is a Victorian period sword, for whatever purpose, it still clearly has its own story to tell.... All the best, Jim