Branched Rapier, Circa 1600, Probably For A Teenager.

This is a rapie rof the “branched” type from Germanic origin, with a blade made inSolingen. It can be dated from the first half of the 17th century based on the shape of the blade and the guard. The blade bears, on the inner face of the ricasso, the monogram P S , which could correspond to PeterSchimmelbuch from Solingen, likely the second generation, Peter known as“the Younger,” active between 1640 and 1669. The three generations of PeterSchimmelbusch who worked in the 17th century were active between1608 and 1696. Since the work of these craftsmen was similar, and often done in collaboration, it is very difficult to distinguish between them.
The guard corresponds toreference 53 in Norman’s classification, which dates it between 1550 and 1630.
BLADE : After a pronounced ricasso measuring 8.5 cm, the blade takes on a so-called “seagull’s wing”section, meaning it takes the shape of a flattened rhombus whose sides are hollow
At the ricasso,on the inner side: Monogram P S in cursive On the outer side,a bust of a warrior wearing a morion, and the soedsmith’s hallmark.
Blade length including the ricasso: 90 cm; width at the ricasso: 2.5 cm; thickness at the ricasso: 6.2 mm; balance point 3.5 cm from the ricasso.
GUARD: This is amulti-branched guard, with two wide, straight quillons that gradually widen. All the branches of the guard (but not the quillons) are decorated with transverse marks. Some authors refer to this decoration as “rosary chiseling.” The knuckle bow rises in an arc toward the pommel, near which it curves and ends without touching it. 
POMMEL: It is baluster-shaped with a base, a bulbous middle section divided into several quarters, and a large, rounded knob—quite unusual—to which the blade tang is riveted.
GRIP : It is covered with a complex binding of twisted copper. The braided ferrules known as “Turk's heads” are present and in very good condition.
This rapier is very complete and in fine condition, with no parts loose. Its length,which is relatively slightly shorter than some models of the period, may correspond either simply to a weapon intended for “city” wear to avoid bulk, or more likely to a weapon intended for a teenager. These rapiers intended for teenagers are rarer than classic rapiers.
Shipping costs:La Poste = France €40, Europe €60 //UPS = France €60, Europe €80
Ref E-2646