Pinch of Snuff Basket-hilt
This week I received a new sword for my collection, a basket-hilted broadsword with a brass ‘pinch of snuff’ hilt. The hilt derives its name from the 18th Century painting that shows a highlander taking a pinch of snuff. On his side is a basket hilt with this style of basket.
Based on this, it is believed that the style relates to the early to mid 18th Century.
My sword is a composite with an older 17th cent. London made blade. The blade is also shorter and lighter than one normally would expect and the edge shows signs of having repairs to the edge. The grip is a later repair as is the pommel (as informed by the dealer I purchased it from).
The blade is marked:
Thomas Hvmffreies
Londin Fecit
Anno 1668
Has anyone else encountered a blade by Thomas?
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