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Fig. 1359. Chain-pattern rapier hilt
Possibly the work of Claude Savigny of Tours (1578-95) Collection: Baron de Cosson
from its very formation, it can never have been the property of that monarch, as in our opinion it belongs to a later period. In the decoration of this hilt the work of the Italian goldsmith and jeweller of the third quarter of the XVIth century can be seen at its very finest. The pommel is pear-shaped and ridged. The ends of the quillons, the knuckle-guard, and the centres of the rings contain heads of cherubim, exquisitely modelled in full relief; while arrangements of leafage, swags of fruit and flowers, and monsters' heads occupy the remainder of the hilt, all chased and enamelled with the wonderful finish which is associated with the Italian goldsmith's art of the later Renaissance. As a town-sword, or épée de parade, the author considers this sumptuous weapon to be the finest in existence. The blade, which is the work of Antonio Picinino, is severely plain and simply grooved. In the Schatzkammer of the Alte Residenz at Munich there is a
