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Originally Posted by katana
Hi,
interesting sword.....although this is likely a 'Victorian' copy...or as suggested has symbolic qualities, there is a possibility that this could be 'authentic' (as a type of Rapier)
In Stone's 'A Glossary of ....Arms and Armour....' there is an example of Rapier that has a wavy blade stated as French, late 16th C (page 525).
A few thoughts....
Rapier develpment was 'meteoric' during a relatively short period of time.... development and evolution and it's demise. New ideas and modification seem to come and go very quickly....perhaps the Serpentine blade was one of them.
It is known that the Rapier was taken by the Portugese to India, bearing in mind that there were established trade routes between India with SEA it is likely that serpentine blades such as the Kris would have been known within India and later, the Europeans that colonised the area.
I also think that the wavy bladed Rapier would have a better 'cut' in the thrust (as with the kris) and possibly with 'slashing' cuts as well. Parrying an opponent's blade might also easier and allow more control as the 'offensive' straight blade is partially trapped in the undulations of the blade.
I would imagine that if a wavy blade had the same 'reach' as a straight bladed' version it would be heavier. (ie if the wavy blade was 'pulled' straight it would be longer and therefore weigh more) Suggesting that if a serpentine blade was mounted ...the hilt/pommel would be heavier to balance the blade. It is a shame that we do not know the 'balance point' of this particular sword. If ceremonial, it is likely that a 'standard weighted' hilt would be fitted to the 'overweight' blade making it 'tip heavy'....making it totally unusable for a 'Rapier duel'.
Looking at the pictures ....there is a possibility that there is a later (?) repair.
There seems to be a metal plate that looks to be 'younger' than the rest of the hilt.....This plate is held by at least two screws....also noticeable are the gaps between hilt and blade 
Regards David |
Hi David,
Great observations mate!
The balance point is a great idea. It looks like its going to be just below what would normally be thought of as 'riight'.
I say this because the handle looks a little long and the pommel is rather large. This and the obviously heavy guard with all its 'extras' and the large knuckle bow probobly make this 'about' balanced. I would guess the balance point to be about 4inches down the blade. But the critial thing as you mention is weight. As you say there are many 'dead end' rapier designs, but often the heavier ones are longer. Even the serpentine/flamboyant bladed rapiers are still effective in their length. I just cant see that being the case with this one. Rapier fencing is speed, I'd worry that this one would just get you killed.
Are there any period documents about incorporating the flamboyant blade into rapier fencing?
I find myself thinking about a fairly close-in thrust and sliding the point of the blade onto the target while at the same time deflecting an incoming thrust by angling the guard end of the sword outward slightly so the incomming opponents sword tip goes past you. The flamboyant blade would cause a slowing and wobble to this common and critical move, possibly causing you to miss and your opponent to hit.
Which made me think would the sword be kept in a 'up down' position (blade profile upright) while performing the thrust?
But then the blade would flex side-to-side! LOL, I'm waffling now.
Regards
Gene