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Smallsword

Sword cutler Attributed to John Bland British
ca. 1780–85
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 376
This unusual Neoclassical hilt combines fashionable cut-steel beads with panels of blued and gold-encrusted steel. It is attributed to the London sword-cutler John Bland, who retailed several hilts of similar workmanship.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Smallsword
  • Sword cutler: Attributed to John Bland (British, London, active ca. 1780–85)
  • Date: ca. 1780–85
  • Geography: London
  • Culture: British, probably London
  • Medium: Gold, steel
  • Dimensions: L. 39 in. (99.1 cm); L. of blade 32 3/16 in. (81.7 cm); Wt. 1 lb. (454 g)
  • Classification: Swords
  • Credit Line: Gift of Jean Jacques Reubell, in memory of his mother, Julia C. Coster, and of his wife, Adeline E. Post, both of New York City, 1926
  • Object Number: 26.145.311
  • Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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