Product Details
ATTRIBUTED TO MATTHEW BOULTON
AN EXTREMELY FINE CUT-STEEL SMALL-SWORD WITH BLUE & GILT BLADE, RETAILED BY THOMAS GREY, LONDON,
circa 1790, with narrow concave-faced triangular 31 1/2in. blade retaining all its factory polish, the first 8in. blued and engraved with gilded devices, fluted oval steel guard with loose faceted beads strung around the outer edge (one bead absent), shallow pas-d-ane, faceted grip with strung cut-steel bead decoration, facet urn pommel and pierced 'D' shaped knucklebow with central strung beads en-suite, complete with its velum scabbard with three mounts, the throat signed 'THO'S GREY, SACKVILLE ST.
Provenance: Matthew Boulton's (better known for his collaboration with Watt on steam engines) relationship with Thomas Grey is well documented, although sword hilts by Boulton are rarely marked. Research conducted by Leslie Southwick for the Arms & Armour Society Journal in 2009 revealed a good number of cut steel designs by Boulton. Thomas Grey of course was the jewellery shop immortalised in Jane Austin's 'Sense & Sensibility' when Miss Dashwood went to exchange some of her mother's old jewels. 18th century small and court swords rarely appear in this condition, which is virtually factory fresh and a rare opportunity for the collector
Please click HERE to view Terms & Conditions. Please note all Lots are listed in accordance with UK Law, for overseas buyers, please ensure you are familiar with your relevant local firearms and customs regulations before bidding.
Estimate £1,400-1,800
This bladed product is not for sale to people under the age of 18. By bidding on this item you are declaring that you are 18 years of age or over.
Please be aware that we are unable to send edged weapons or bladed products by postal courier to a UK residential address (Offensive Weapons Act 2019)