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LOT 1259
Incredibly Ornate Relief Chiseled,
Engraved, and Gilded Cup Hilt Rapier
- This sword was likely produced in the
Victorian era with originals from the
16th and 17th centuries as inspiration.
Although unsigned, it may be the work of
Antonio Cortelazzo (1819-1903) of Vicenza,
a well-known and talented craftsman
who produced extraordinary pieces in
Renaissance style and exhibited his works
at international exhibitions. The 43 1/8 inch
blade has scroll engraving, relief chiseled
grotesque masks at the ricassos, and “NON
TI FIDAR DI ME” and “SE IL COR TI MANCA”
inscribed in the fullers. This translates to “do
not trust me if your heart fails you” which
could also be interpreted as “do not use me
if you lack courage”. The Christogram “IHS”
is marked at the front of both fullers. The
beautiful hilt features a pierced and chiseled
cup with scrollwork, grotesques, scenes
from the feats of Hercules, the coats of arms
of Brescia and Trento, and martial motifs
accented by gold and silver; gilt internal cup
and red velvet lining, guards relief chiseled
with scrolls and masks accented by gold and
silver, grip with a Bacchanalia theme with
detailed nude figures accented by gold and
silver, and a pierced and chiseled pommel
with silver bands and gold inlays.
CONDITION: Fine overall with distinct
markings and designs throughout, strong
gold and silver remaining, dark brown
patina on much of the hilt, silver-gray patina
on the blade along with mild pitting, and
moderate wear.
Estimate: 15,000 - 25,000
250