Brass hilt originally gilt with thickened edge shell guards decorated in classical Italian motifs. Spirally fluted foliate grip and pommel. 27 1/8” rapier blade with deep fullers at the forte, unmarked. Embracing the Italian tradition, this sword is the product of rehilting an heirloom family blade, probably originally from a cup hilted rapier about 1650. The hilt was purpose made for the blade about 1750. An unusual construction feature is the grip and pommel, made in two halves with a brazed seam, originally concealed by its gold surface. This is a town sword, carried at a time when, particularly in Italy, every man in the streets was armed. Its considerable, surely daily, service is evidenced by the fact that the grip is worn from its owner’s hand gripping it while sheathed. Great age character.