Smallsword
c. 1760
Medium
Steel, two gold alloys, and gilding
Dimensions
104.1 × 10.2 cm (41 × 4 in.)
Classification
edged weapon-sword
Department
Applied Arts of Europe
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
222940
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
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.
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...