This elegant example represents the fighting sword in its finest form. Its down turned guard with large side ring and heavy pommel provide protection for the hand and counter balance for the blade. It is an arming sword, capable of an effective attack on an armored opponent. It comes from a group...

No single form or date can be given to the point at which the rapier evolved. However, accepting the common definition, this example comes very close to that point, retaining the principal attributes of the Gothic broadsword, straight cross guard and wheel pommel. Its simple counter guard is...

This sword which dates to the second quarter of the 18th century is of a quality and exhibits artistry identified with a handful of makers. The hilt is of so called Glasgow form with strap like elements enclosing the principle panels. The back panel and those flanking it employ design features...

This helmet is of a type which once was popularly used in Northern Italy, but as with all armor of the Gothic period, nearly all have perished. An example, #A89 in the Wallace Collection cataloged as Milan, 1510 (dated by Blair as 1505-10) is nearly identical. A further nearly identical example is...

This fine helmet is probably the product of a Milanese workshop. The heavy one piece iron skull is large enough to accommodate the internal padding needed for the tilt. The roped comb provides a cushion against a blow or cut. The hinged visor is flanged to seat in the upper bevor which is notched...

A fine example of impressive proportions. Large fighting hilt of Glasgow form with fretted and pierced panels flanked by flattened bars. Large rolled quillon. Wire wrapped spirally fluted leather covered grip. Blade with broad central fuller at the forte etched each side with Prudentia et...

This fine over and under pistol was made about 1860. The double barrel large bore style was fashionable with military officers. The .70 cal 6 1/2 barrels are rifled, Liege proofed and serial numbered. The upper barrel top is inscribed F. P Caron a Paris Aig de L. M. lEmpereur. The locks and...

This fine rapier is distinguished by retaining considerable original gold overlay. It gives us a glimpse of what most fine weapons would have looked like when they were being used. While most rapiers survive in the white, with bare iron surfaces, each had a surface treatment when produced. Many...

This example represents the rapier at its zenith. The solid iron cup with roped top edge rolled inward is decorated with intertwined bands enclosing panels decorated with foliage inhabited by beasts. The upper portion has alternate round panels with classic Italian portraits and oval panels...

This sword is from a group studied by A. V. B. Norman which is believed have been made for Life Guard Officers. A closely related example, property of the Queen, is at Windsor Castle, No.760. It was made by John Bland dating it to 1768-87. This example is made by Bland & Foster, successors to John...

This breastplate is of a type which evolved in the late Gothic period, C.1490 and remained popular until about 1520. With small differences, they were produced in Italy, Flanders and Spain. It is of heavy weight, made for infantry and bears a mark on the base flare, studied, but as yet unidentified...

The morion was the helmet of choice in Italy while the military in Germany wore burgonets almost exclusively. Special guard units who protected royalty, the nobility and elite clergy wore morions in Germany for their exotic form as well as for protection. This example is decorated on one side with...

The second half of the 19th century brought sweeping global changes, including the ability to travel as never before. A new cosmopolitan life style for the advantaged, combined with global markets for manufacturers brought about international exhibitions where the finest craftsmanship was showcased...

In the 17th century, the streets of Spanish towns and cities were treacherous. A mans worth was judged by his dress and his vulnerability, by the weapon he carried. This rapier was worn in the streets and its boldly decorated hilt advertised at distance, that the carrier was capable of owning a...

This pair of mitten gauntlets were originally from a full armor in the fluted style introduced about the turn of the century and popularized as Maximillian style. Many regard that armor as the pinnacle of achievement for the art. The fine quality and eminent functionality of these elements supports...

The lovely form and decoration of this blade conceal a much more serious function; to parry and capture an opponents blade. The opened clefts flanking the ricasso allow a blade to be captured more easily than the closed clefts above, but does not assure success, as a quick twist and withdrawal of...

This helmet was made in Milan, northern Italy and is identified by its decoration, which is sometimes described as Pisan style. It was part of a half armor decorated overall in matching motifs including bands of weapons, armor elements, musical instruments, and oval panels depicting classical Roman...