Smallsword Hilt with Storage Case

Decorator Rundell, Bridge and Rundell British
ca. 1785–1800
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 376
Beaded steel hilts were an English specialty, beginning about 1775. This example retains its original fitted storage box, which would have been provided by the goldsmith or jeweler who sold it.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Smallsword Hilt with Storage Case
  • Decorator: Rundell, Bridge and Rundell (British, London, active 1797–1843)
  • Date: ca. 1785–1800
  • Geography: London or Birmingham
  • Culture: British, Birmingham or London
  • Medium: Steel, wood, leather, silk
  • Dimensions: Hilt (a); L. including tang 8 1/4 in. (21 cm); L. excluding tang 6 15/16 in. (17.7 cm); W. 4 1/2 in. (11.4 cm); D. 3 1/2 in. (8.9 cm); Wt. 10 oz. (284.1 g); case (b); 5.2 oz. (147.4 g); trade card (c); 2 1/2 x 3 9/16 in. (6.4 x 9 cm)
  • Classification: Swords
  • Credit Line: Gift of Richard Hoe Lawrence, 1921
  • Object Number: 21.180a–c
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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