Italian Swept Hilt Rapier with Bone Handle, 16th c.

Italian Swept Hilt Rapier with Bone Handle, 16th c. A beautiful replica of an Italian swept hilt rapier from the 16th century. By the end of the Middle Ages, owing to the changes in combat techniques, the blades became longer and narrower and the common sword was replaced by the more elegant rapier. What's more, wearing of a rapier was an indication of a gentleman's social status during the Renaissance. Noblemen of higher rank, such as earls and barons, wore longer blades while nobles of lower standing had to make do with shorter ones. The grip is made of animal bone. Details: - Material: high carbon steel blade and guard, bone handle - Overall length: approx. 111 cm - Blade length: approx. 92 cm - Weight: approx. 1.35 kg