British, Edwardian / First World War Period c.1911–1915, Wilkinson London Folding-Guard Fencing Foil or Practice Smallsword

An attractive and well-made British fencing foil or military practice smallsword manufactured by Wilkinson of London during the Edwardian to First World War period, retaining its original gilt brass folding guard, wire-bound grip, and narrow practice blade. The sword is of classic salle or officer-training form with a folding shell guard designed to reduce bulk during transport or storage, a feature encountered on higher-quality late Victorian and early 20th century fencing weapons.

The hilt comprises a gilt brass knuckle bow with engraved foliate decoration terminating in a decorative globular pommel, together with a finely wire-bound grip over shaped core. Both the pommel and guard are stamped with matching assembly number “5,” whilst the interior of the shell guard bears the number “8.” The hinged folding guard mechanism remains present and intact, though one section is now fixed in place through age and stiffness.

The rectangular-section blade tapers evenly to a rounded fencing point, confirming intended sporting or training use rather than combat service. The ricasso is stamped “WILKINSON LONDON” together with a Broad Arrow mark and faint Crown inspection stamps. Additional numerals including “11” and “15” are present and likely represent initial military acceptance or inspection in 1911 together with later reinspection or reissue in 1915.

Wilkinson Sword of London was among Britain’s foremost military sword manufacturers and also produced high-quality fencing weapons, salle foils, and officer training equipment for military academies and private fencing clubs during the late Victorian and Edwardian eras. Folding-guard examples such as this are increasingly sought after due to their elegant construction and direct association with British military and gentlemanly fencing traditions of the pre-First World War period.

Approx. Measurements – Blade length: 69 cm. Overall length: 83.8 cm.

History Note:
Fencing remained an important component of British officer training and upper-class sporting culture well into the early 20th century. Lightweight practice foils and smallswords were widely used within military academies, officers’ messes, universities, and civilian fencing salles. Folding-guard examples were especially practical for travel and storage and were commonly retailed by prestigious London makers such as Wilkinson prior to and during the First World War.

*Condition*
The sword survives in untouched aged condition with overall wear, handling marks, and surface oxidation throughout. The blade displays scattered pitting, darkening, and age-related corrosion consistent with long-term storage. The gilt finish to the hilt has worn attractively through use and handling. Folding shell guard remains structurally intact though stiff, with one section no longer moving freely. Markings remain partially visible but softened through age and wear. No scabbard present. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.