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Rapier of Ambrogio Spinola (1569–1630) with Scabbard Chape

Hilt Maker Hilt inscribed M. I. F.
ca. 1600
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 376
The hilt is finely decorated with small yet amazingly detailed scenes from the Old Testament, encircled by identifying inscriptions in Latin and French. The hilt is initialed M.I.F. three times by an unidentified medalist or sculptor. Inscribed on the back of the knuckle guard is the name of the owner, Ambrogio Spinola (1569–1630), commander in chief of the Spanish forces in the sourthern Netherlands from 1604 to 1609.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Rapier of Ambrogio Spinola (1569–1630) with Scabbard Chape
  • Hilt Maker: Hilt inscribed M. I. F. (northern European, active ca. 1600)
  • Date: ca. 1600
  • Culture: Northern European, possibly France
  • Medium: Steel
  • Dimensions: L. of sword 46 1/8 in. (117.1 cm); L. of blade 39 3/4 in. (101 cm); L. of chape 3 in. (7.6 cm)
  • Classification: Swords
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1932
  • Object Number: 32.130.4a, b
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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