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Radboud
20th November 2023, 09:30 PM
Following Norman's lovely smallsword / spadroon that he shared with us in this post (http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showpost.php?p=286153&postcount=12), I thought to share this sword that I believe shares a connection.

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I acquired this sword a while back not knowing what it was, but I liked the boatshell guard and the ebony grip. By luck I happened on a site that described it as an Officers sword of the State Army 1770 - 1800 (before the dissolution of the Batiave Republic.

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The sword was identified by Dr Ger Hof, a Dutch sword collector and expert on the topic, as a specific pattern based on existing examples and this painting of Johan Pieter Reigersman in the uniform of a lieutenant of the lifeguards (grenadiers) of the 2nd battalion, Regiment Hollandse Guards (on foot).

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Norman's sword reminded me a lot of the one in the painting.

Norman McCormick
22nd November 2023, 01:13 PM
Hi Radboud,
Lovely sword and great that you got a definite attribution something that is not always possible. I have attached a further photo of the hilt of my sword and a copy of an article on an identified English officers sword. First notice the similarity of the boatshell guard and d-guard on your sword and the English officers sword. Second the similarity of the d-guard, grip and pommel on my sword and the English officers sword. Seems to me there is a common source for parts or certainly a fashion element used by different manufacturers/suppliers/assemblers.
My Regards,
Norman.

Radboud
23rd November 2023, 12:01 AM
That's a great find Norman, I'm struck by the similarities between the three hilts, especially between your sword and the one in the article.