French Gras Model 1874 Rifle Bayonet

A copper-alloy multi-segmented spangenhelm with an ogival profile, rivetted conical finial and riveted straps running vertically around the circumference, some restoration. 1.14 kg, 23 cm high



UK private collection before 2000. UK art market. Property of a London gentleman. Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D'Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by searcher certificate no.11589-199700.

The Spangenhelm is a protective headgear made up from segments or plates held together by a frame. As a popular form of helmet it came to prominence in western Europe in the later Roman Empire, and remained in use for some centuries until replaced by helmets formed from a single sheet.

A Gras bayonet with T-shaped tapering 'epee' blade fitted with steel perforated quillon, rivetted wood grip scales and brass pommel slotted to fit the rifle barrel key; various punchmarks and numbered '7233' to quillon, the back of the blade inscribed 'Usine de Stoyr 1876' in script. 581 grams, 64.5 cm

Good condition.

Acquired on the UK antiques market between 1974-1985. Albert Ward collection, Essex, UK.

A double-edged sword of Petersen Type L or S variant with straight tapering blade, light traces of pattern-welding and battle-nicks along the blade, tapering fullers and a sturdy long tang; boat-shaped lower guard curving gently towards the blade, decorated with punched ring-and-dot ornament along the edges; the upper guard with Trewhiddle Style ornament, surmounted by an elegant five-lobed pommel decorated with geometric patterns in the same style; cleaned and conserved. 755 grams, 89 cm



Acquired 1971-1972. From the collection of the vendor's father. Property of a London, UK, collector. Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D’Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by searcher certificate no.11574-198855.