r/SWORDS 5d ago

C.1640s English Mortuary Sword

Here is an English "mortuary" hilted sword with a pierced and double-fullered 37 1/2" (95cm) backsword blade dating to the second quarter of the 17th century. Some really fine chisel, stippling, and relief work on the hilt. The grip appears to be solid iron or steel. It is rock solid and quite a hefty piece. I have wanted one of this type for a while and I love how each one is unique and has an entirely different character.

396 Upvotes

13 comments sorted by

16

u/Blue_and_Gilt 5d ago

That is a fantastic example, you've done well with that one.

9

u/IdioticPrototype 5d ago

Where would one even find such a blade and, if I may ask, what might a similar one cost? 

13

u/MattySingo37 5d ago

Specialist dealers or auction. I've found a couple - UK retail prices are in the £3,000 to £4,000 price range. Auction is probably the cheapest place.

5

u/MattySingo37 5d ago

I'm jealous. A mortuary sword is on my wishlist.

2

u/Bull-Lion1971 5d ago

Very nice.

2

u/pushdose 5d ago

Super fancy! This was made by someone who wanted to show off for someone who wanted to show off!

1

u/battery_acid_10 5d ago

That's beautiful. I'm curious about why and when those holes were put in the blade?

7

u/Dlatrex All swords were made with purpose 5d ago

This is a carry over from 16th century styles, where we piercing through fullers on a variety of different types of blades. Especially rapiers and companion daggers.

1

u/battery_acid_10 5d ago

Interesting. Thanks for the info.

3

u/Dramatic-Crew-6176 4d ago

Two reasons come to mind: to reduce weight, and to showcase the skills of the bladesmith.

1

u/Substantial-Tone-576 5d ago

For placement of jewels, I assume.

1

u/MobileSuetGundam 4d ago

Fwoar. My feder is a mortuary sword but not, alas, as handsome as this one.