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Rapier of Prince-Elector Christian II of Saxony (1583–1611)

Sword cutler Hilt by Israel Schuech German
Bladesmith Blade by Juan Martinez Spanish
dated 1606
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 376
This hilt is the only recorded work of the Dresden sword cutler Israel Schuech. It is one of the best examples of a rapier hilt made with the same materials, techniques, and quality as the fine sculpture, jewelry, and goldsmiths' work for which the Saxon Court was famous.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Rapier of Prince-Elector Christian II of Saxony (1583–1611)
  • Sword cutler: Hilt by Israel Schuech (German, Dresden, active ca. 1590–1610)
  • Bladesmith: Blade by Juan Martinez (Spanish, Toledo, active ca. 1600)
  • Date: dated 1606
  • Geography: Dresden; Toledo
  • Culture: hilt, German, Dresden; blade, Spanish, Toledo
  • Medium: Steel, bronze, gold, enamel, paste jewels, cameos, pearls, wood
  • Dimensions: L. 48 in. (121.9 cm); L. of blade 41 1/4 in. (104.8 cm); W. 6 3/4 in. (17.2 cm); Wt. 3 lb. 4 oz. (1474 g)
  • Classification: Swords
  • Credit Line: Fletcher Fund, 1970
  • Object Number: 1970.77
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

Audio

Cover Image for 4412. Rapier of Prince-Elector Christian II of Saxony

4412. Rapier of Prince-Elector Christian II of Saxony

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