*German, 19th Century, Cup-Hilted Rapier with Rope Handle & Solingen Blade, Attributed to Weyersberg & Stamm*
A well-made 19th Century German cup-hilted rapier sword, featuring a deep dished steel cup guard designed to afford effective protection to the sword hand. The guard is of plain, robust construction with opposed quillons, typical of later rapier and transitional fencing swords produced in Solingen during the 19th century.
The grip is wrapped with a braided cord covering over a steel tang, providing a secure and practical hold, and is fitted with a plain steel pommel. The blade is long, slender, and stiff, intended primarily for the thrust, tapering evenly to a rounded point. At the forte, the blade is stamped with “W&S” within an oval together with “SOLINGEN”, both marks clear and legible.
Overall, the sword presents as an honest, untouched example, retaining its original form and showing consistent age patina throughout.
Approx. Measurements – Blade length: 76.5 cm. Overall length: 92 cm.
Historical Note:
During the 19th century, Solingen remained Europe’s foremost centre of blade manufacture, producing both military and civilian swords for domestic use and export. While the classical rapier belongs to an earlier period, cup-hilted forms continued to be manufactured in Solingen as fencing swords, court swords, and historicist pieces reflecting earlier styles.
The W&S oval mark is consistent with products associated with Weyersberg & Stamm, or a closely related Solingen workshop operating under similar initials. The Weyersberg family were among the most prolific blade manufacturers in Solingen, later forming part of the renowned Weyersberg, Kirschbaum & Co. group. Such marks are frequently encountered on high-quality 19th-century export and dress swords.
*Condition*
Blade shows even age patina with scattered oxidation and surface wear consistent with age; no cracks or structural issues observed. Stamps remain legible. Cup guard and hilt exhibit surface wear and oxidation with no evidence of modern polishing or restoration. Braided grip covering is intact and secure, showing light wear and age darkening. Overall a solid, well-preserved example. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQDOXIO_277413052025
