Beautiful 17th C. Transitional Rapier Sword w/ Bird Decoration English Tesche

Description

Details:
-This sword is a transitional rapier, likely from around the last quarter of the 17th century (c.1660). As the 17th century progressed, traditional rapiers transitioned into transitional rapiers and and traditional small swords transitioned into courtswords . When the last half of the 17th century loomed, the small courtswords gained in popularity and took the 18th century with authority.
-The person on the pommel of the sword is attributed to Henrietta of England which could point to the possibility of this sword being English and a civilian sword to someone of high nobility. The words on the blade possibly say "ESCHE" which can attribute this blade to the maker Johannis Tesche, German maker from Solingen in the 17th century. Tesche was a very active sword maker in Solingen, Germany making civilian swords for many Aristocratic English Nobles. The handle decoration as well as the etchings on the blade seem to tie in the probability that he may be the maker.
-The bird on the guard of the sword seems to resemble a peacock which symbolizes the Resurrection, everlasting life and incorruptibility of someone. A scene like this can also represent knightly vigilance and of Christian watchfulness as positive traits to a person. The other part of the bird wing seems to be hidden behind its frame. It's incredibly rare and particularly special to find swords with birds featured on them like this one.
-Condition note: The sword is in very good condition with minor corrosion that can be cleaned (With use of proper preservation cleaners). Features beautiful bird designs surrounding a trellis pattern in the middle are visible on the guard as well as exquisite blade quality and craftsmanship throughout the entirety of the design. The blade is firmly attached to the guard and the tip is still sharp. The sword measures 42" inches from Pommel to tip.