Description:

North America, Mexico, Early Republic period, ca. early 19th century CE. A beautiful example of an espada ancha (literally "wide sword") with an ovoid wooden handle and a swept-hilt guard of distinct Spanish stylization. The openwork guard displays elegant detailing and a hinged panel above the shoulder etched with ivy, with a petite thumb tab on one side, and a Mexican eagle atop the widest section. The single-edged blade exhibits a thick spine and a gently curved lower tip as well as engraved foliate motifs and "M.T." on one shoulder. The form-fitting leather sheath is sewn up the verso and has a pierced suspension tab protruding from the upper area. Espada ancha swords like this example used to have wide blades akin to the traditional broad sword during the pre-Republic era of New Spain (in modern-day northern Mexico), however the blade width narrowed over time to facilitate hunting and ease of transport by soldiers. Size: 4.7" W x 29.4" H (11.9 cm x 74.7 cm); (blade): 24.25" L (61.6 cm).

Provenance: private Glorieta, New Mexico, USA collection, acquired in 2019; ex-Marco Arana collection, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA

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#155347

  • Condition: Slight bending to overall form of blade, with light encrustations, softening to some engraved details, minor nicks to wooden handle, and desiccation to sheath commensurate with age, otherwise intact and very good. Hinged guard panel still articulates. Nice patina throughout.

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May 7, 2020 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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