Cup-hilt rapier with red and black guard

A rapier with a cup-hilt guard finished in red and black enamel on a silver-toned metal shell, divided by a raised silver-toned metal rib running vertically across the cup face. The interior of the cup features a pierced central plate with a symmetrical scrollwork cutout pattern, backed by a tan/gold cross-hatched fabric or mesh lining visible through the openings. The outer rim of the cup is edged in black enamel, the broad band below in red enamel, with decorative scroll flourishes at the joins. The blade is slender, straight, and tapering, consistent with a thrusting rapier; surface shows light discolouration and minor pitting along the forte. A second rapier with a cream and black guard with green enamel panel is visible in the overview photograph but is a separate item.

Condition

Guard enamel shows minor chipping and surface scratches; the metal of the cup interior has areas of tarnish and surface pitting. Blade shows light oxidation spotting. Overall structure appears intact.

Category

MILITARY AND COLLECTABLES

Delivery

Local pickup only