RARE EUROPEAN SILVER-ENCRUSTED TRANSITIONAL RAPIER FOR A BOY, C.1680-1700

Steel hilt with pierced asymmetrical shell guards, embellished overall with silver appliqués including portrait heads on the shells and pommel. The balance features a variety of foliage and geometric themes. Silver wire-wrapped grip. 25" rapier blade with deep fuller at the forte, marked: A N T O XXX I N I O / E N T O L E D O. The silver is about complete with expected wear. The blade is excellent. A fine quality example made for a boy of noble or royal class, maturing in preparation for his place as a leader and, probably, soldier.