Neoclassical Arms, Armor and Weapons

This important and unique sword was presented to the famed French painter Jean-Gabriel Domergue to commemorate the painter's election to the illustrious Académie des Beaux-Arts in 1950. One of the highest honors bestowed on a French artist, the ceremonial induction into the French Academy has been accompanied by the presentation of a sword since the age of Napoléon. Rather than a weapon, the sword became part of the Academician's uniform, and, over time, its design came to represent the interests and aspirations of its recipient. This example was designed entirely by Domergue's wife Odette, a great sculptor in her own right, and thus it represents both a highly personal gift and an important art historical relic. The design of the sword is simply magnificent. Odette Domergue found her inspiration in antiquity, a theme that is also seen in the neoclassical sculptures that occupy the gardens of the couple's famous home, Villa Fiesole - also known as Villa Domergue - in Cannes. The impressive weapon boasts a solid gold handle that takes the form of a sinuous caryatid, who is nude save for a single swath of drapery. While the female figure recalls the sculpted supports prevalent in ancient Greek architecture, she also calls to mind the subjects for which Domergue was renowned - languorous, slightly risqué women with a seductive air. Other decorative elements such as fauna, cypresses, and grotesque heads enhance the whimsy and imagination of the incredible neoclassical design. Furthermore, the scabbard that contains the finely etched blade is also an impeccable work of art. Crafted of black Moroccan leather in imitation of the snake skin, it displays intricately engraved foliage patterns with a lion's head and Domergue's coat of arms. Though imagined by his wife, the sword was expertly chiseled by the celebrated goldsmith R. Delsinne and assembled by the atelier of the famed sculptor and medalist Raymond Delamarre...

Vintage Adirondak Pro Ring number 302, Ken Landreaux Big Stick Flame Treated wooden baseball bat with brass plaque “To Commemorate the 51st All Star Game Dodger Stadium Los Angeles, ...

Marks: In key, chamber of the cannon and trigger guard. Date: between 1761 and 1793. Author: Salvador de Zenarro. "Real Arcabucero". Origin / Provenance: Madrid, Spain. Material:...

Marks: cannon (inscription, trademarks and countermark); key (punch); trigger guard (punch); medal with rope (inscription). Date: 1774 cannon; key of 1773. Author: Miguel de Cega...

This armorial plate features a crest with an Eagle with outstretched wings and the motto "By Industry and Hope." Made by Chamberlain's Worcester, the plate has a wide border with forest green ground and three cartouches, each showing a beautiful hand painted single flower. The plate was made in England by Chamberlain's Worcester during the reign of George IV, circa 1825. The armorial may be blazoned as follows: Crest: On a rock, an eagle with wings elevated and addorsed proper pendant from the beak, a shield azure charged with a hank of cotton also proper. Motto: Industria et spe [By Industry and Hope]. Dimensions: 9 inches diameter Condition: Excellent Price: $360 The crest was granted by the Kings of Arms at The College of Arms...

Roman fruitwood trophy wall plaque carved with the forms of armor, halberds, and other military regalia.