Hi Jean Luc,
After looking in the Spanish military Weapons in Colonial America there is nothing there which shows or mentions such a ring in the guard of cup hilt rapiers. My suggestion of German influence as to that feature resembling a 'thumb ring' as on many German and European military sword hilts was a tenacious notion at best, and really does not seem to be the case.
It seems almost a rudimentary finger guard as in a pas d'ane of the developing small swords of latter 17th into 18th.
It is curious that even Norman, in "The Rapier and Small Sword" does not address this hilt form, and Fernando's note on their being termed 'margarida' is most valuable (and duly noted) as he has access to key resources with this specialized information.
Also well noted are his notes on the remarkable spectrum of blade lengths on rapier type swords, as they were typically privately commissioned and fashioned according to individual requirements. Officers often had hilts fitted with heavier combat suitable blades, but following the traditional hilt styles which Spain deeply cherished.
The blade seems of course Solingen, and more on the inscription would be helpful.
|