An illustrated Reference Guide to the Rapiers of the 16th and 17th Centuries, and their Companions.

This illustrated monograph is the first study devoted to the rapier to be published in the English language, and possibly in any language. The long, pointed and slender civilian fencing sword called the rapier, a beautiful creation of the swordsmith, was in use from the early 16th century until towards the end of the 17th century. Gentleman throughout the courts of Europe would wear one not only as a mark of rank but also to be ready to defend their ladies’ honour. Considerable romance, therefore attaches to the story of the rapier, and its rich history and development is traced in this book. Eric Valentine, an expert on the subject, has built up a remarkable collection of rapiers and has written about them in the Journal of the Arms and Armour Society. By means of nearly sixty photographs, Mr. Valentine shows in this book examples of almost every kind of rapier, the many variations of the rapier hilt, rapier parts, left-handed daggers used when duelling, and a duelling gauntlet. The accompanying text enables the reader to follow developments from the 15th century estoc, precursor to the rapier, to the late 17th century rapier which evolved into the small-sword. Of particular value to collectors are the author’s detailed methods of authentification, renovation, cleaning and preservation of rapiers. And, as a work of reference, this monograph is enhanced by appendices providing a listing of swordsmiths, museums where rapiers may be viewed, details of weight, and a comprehensive bibliography.

Details


Product Code:	8949
Author:	Eric Valentine
Format:	74pp, illustrated throughout, sb.
Shipping Time:	Usually despatched within 7 Days
Our Price:	£15.00 January sale price: £12.00