Sword and Sheath c. 1938

Cecil Smith created this watercolor painting of a sword and sheath, likely in the late 19th or early 20th century. The original sword and sheath would have involved the skilled labor of numerous artisans. The blade, likely forged from high-carbon steel, required expertise in metallurgy and heat-treating to achieve its balance of hardness and flexibility. The hilt and decorative elements, possibly made of brass or gold, demanded further skills in casting, chasing, and engraving. The sheath would have been crafted with expertise in leatherworking, metalworking, and possibly textile work for lining. The painting captures the reflective qualities of the polished steel blade and the intricate detailing of the gilded hilt and sheath fittings. The artist's meticulous rendering provides insight into the original object's function, decoration, and the division of labor inherent in its production.