Artwork preview

Smallsword Hilt and Blade

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Smallsword Hilt and Blade by an unknown artist features a hilt with a spherical pommel at the top. The pommel is made of dark-colored material with a marbled appearance. A wire-wrapped handle is positioned below the pommel. The handle is wrapped with dark-colored cord or wire. A metal guard is located below the handle, and it has two quillons that extend outward on either side. A curved knuckle guard extends from the right side of the guard. The blade is partially visible, with intricate engravings and a decorative design. The background of the image is a plain white color.

Artwork details

Date:
ca. 1730
Medium:
Steel, copper-gold alloy (shakudō), gold
Culture:
hilt, Japanese, possibly Dejima; blade, European
Dimensions:
478 × 625 px
Museum record:
View original
Palette