DISCOVERART

Probably German

Smallsword

c. 1760
Steel, two gold alloys, and gilding
104.1 × 10.2 cm (41 × 4 in)

SEE IT IN PERSON

● On view now — Gallery 239

Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · verified July 2026

View at artic.edu ↗Plan a visit ↗

Discussion

FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

The hilt of this smallsword is encrusted or overlaid with flowers and foliage in two different tones of gold—pink and green—contrasted against a deep blue-black steel ground. As a fashion accessory, the weapon was intended to harmonize with a gentleman’s finely embroidered silk coat. Despite its ornament, it could still be used for self-defense.

Source ↗

Be the first to share your thoughts.

Sign in to join the discussion.

Community guidelines

More by Probably German

Christ on the Cross with the Virgin and Saint John the EvangelistChrist on the Cross with the Virgin and Saint John the EvangTwo-Handed SwordTwo-Handed SwordSword PommelSword Pommel

More like this

Smallsword and ScabbardHilt and scabbard fittings; northern Indian Blade: probaby ESmallsword for a ChildFrench — Smallsword for a ChildDress SwordHilt: Portuguese or Spanish; blade: probably German — Dress Composite Smallsword and ScabbardHilt: Flemish or Dutch; blade: French — Composite SmallswordSmallsword with Portraits of Monarchs from the Bourbon DynastyFrench — Smallsword with Portraits of Monarchs from the BourSmallsword and ScabbardThomas Prosser — Smallsword and ScabbardSmallswordBlade: Peter Munch Germany, Solingen, c. 1595-1660 — SmallswSmallswordFrench — SmallswordSword of Winthrop Sargent (1753-1820), First Governor of Northwest TerritoriesEnglish — Sword of Winthrop Sargent (1753-1820), First GoverRapierEnglish — RapierSmallswordWestern European — SmallswordCavalry Officer's Saber with ScabbardAmerican — Cavalry Officer's Saber with Scabbard