Rapier 1575 - 1635

This rapier, dating from 1575 to 1635 and created by Clemens Wopper, is a striking example of 16th-century weaponry. The rapier, a type of sword characterized by its slender blade and elaborate hilt, was popular among the European elite during the Renaissance. The intricate, spiraled design of the hilt is typical of the period, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era. This particular example, on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, is a testament to the historical significance of the rapier as a symbol of both status and combat prowess.