Rapier 1585 - 1645

Crafted around the late 16th or early 17th century by Pietro de Formicano, this rapier is a testament to the artistry of war. The dominant motif here is the serpent, coiled elegantly around the hilt—a symbol laden with meaning. In classical antiquity, serpents represented healing and wisdom, yet also deception and chaos. We see echoes of this duality throughout history. In ancient Greece, the serpent was entwined with the staff of Asclepius, a god of medicine. Yet, consider the biblical serpent, tempting Eve, embodying temptation and knowledge. Observe how the serpent, once revered, then vilified, continues to resurface—a powerful force engaging us on a subconscious level. It taps into our collective memory, a primal symbol triggering both attraction and repulsion. Its presence on this rapier evokes a complex interplay of protection and menace, a visceral reminder of the wielding of power. The serpent slithers through time, ever-changing, yet eternally present.