Shell guard damascene rapier

Early Modern shell guard rapier with an exquisite gold damascene hilt. The shell guard features gilded diamond-shaped ornaments and the perfume bottle pommel is decorated with delicate scrolling flourishes.    The rapier was first developed in the 16th century, and by the end of the century the name and design of a rapier came to mean a civilian cut-and-thrust weapon that was lighter than large arming swords. As well as a weapon, it was worn as a fashion accessory and to denote status and wealth.