Sword, Italy, 16th century. Steel, hilt russetted, leather grip; overall: 100 cm (39 3/8 in.); blade: 87 cm (34 1/4 in.); quillions: cm (2 1/2 in.); grip: cm (4 1/2 in.). The hilt of this sword is russeted, a decorative technique popular in France and England that imparts a brownish color to the surface of the metal. It was achieved by a chemical process that involved treating the steel surface with a mild corrosive medium. As an added benefit the process also helps protect against rust.

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Size: 2026px × 3400px
Photo credit: © CMA/BOT / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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