Reaching the pinnacle of its popularity in the late 17th century and early 18th century, the smallsword was an evolution of the rapier into a weapon that was more comfortably carried every day. This interesting example was manufactured c. 1814-1836 in Klingenthal, found in the Alsace region of France. The left of the blade near the guard is marked "Manuf/Royale du Klingenthal", while the left is marked "Coulaux/Freres", for the family that took charge of the royal forge there in 1801, purchased it from the government in 1836, and remained in charge of operations until its closure in 1962. This interesting example measures approximately 42 inches overall with a 34 3/4 inch colichemarde blade, which is defined by its wide forte which abruptly begins a taper that continues towards the point, as well as having a hollow-ground, triangular cross section. Blades of this type saw their widest popularity from c. 1680-1760, before trailing off rapidly due to their sinister association with duelling. This example shows traces of extensive bluing, gilding, and light engraving on the forte showing flags, arms, and floral motifs. The hilt is extensively embellished with relief arms, neo-classical, and floral motifs, as well as 18th century figures on a gilded background. The guard itself is of the coquille/shell type with dual pas d'ane, and a D-shaped knuckle guard. The grip is brass and copper wire wrapped and capped with a scent stopper type pommel embellished to match the rest of the hilt. The scabbard is absent.

Fine, the blade showing mostly a grey patina with traces of the blue and gilt finishes and some scattered patches of light surface pitting. The hilt is exceptionally fine retaining most of the gilt finish with the balance primarily a brown-grey patina. The pommel and guard are slightly loose while the wire on the grip remains mostly tight.