Corpse carrier sword 19thc Austro-Hungary and mourning swords

Jim McDougall · 20th July 2025, 03:12 PM

This Italian smallsword is listed as smallsword with 'blackened hilt' and copper wire grip, noting these types of swords were often 'misleadingly' called mourning swords. It is claimed that this style of decoration was actually in accord with dark toned clothing favored by men in fashion in these times.

I disagree with this assessment as it is well noted that these swords were NOT exclusively used in mourning and funerary occasions but also worn in occasions where somber or unobtrusive weapon would be worn.

Also, the notion that the early versions of these were cheaply made with poor blades (Aylward, 1945) seems to be perhaps an exception, possibly in England. This Italian example of end of 17th century has the triangular blade of 33" which was in following with formidable light rapiers becoming the fashion in civilian swords of the time.

20th July 2025, 03:12 PM	#8
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,424	Italian smallsword 1690-1720 This Italian smallsword is listed as smallsword with 'blackened hilt' and copper wire grip, noting these types of swords were often 'misleadingly' called mourning swords. It is claimed that this style of decoration was actually in accord with dark toned clothing favored by men in fashion in these times. I disagree with this assessment as it is well noted that these swords were NOT exclusively used in mourning and funerary occasions but also worn in occasions where somber or unobtrusive weapon would be worn. Also, the notion that the early versions of these were cheaply made with poor blades (Aylward, 1945) seems to be perhaps an exception, possibly in England. This Italian example of end of 17th century has the triangular blade of 33" which was in following with formidable light rapiers becoming the fashion in civilian swords of the time. Attached Images