Pair of Award Fencing Rapiers, France, 1876, “Klingenthal”, “Colaux & C”.

Pair of Award Fencing Rapiers, France, 1876, “Klingenthal”, “Colaux & C”. An elegant pair of presentation fencing rapiers, awarded as prizes in a 19th-century French fencing competition. Each rapier features a finely cast brass guard richly decorated with floral and laurel motifs, inscribed: “2nd Prize / Jacques de Kersaint / 1876” and “Duplay Institution / Professor Manniez.” The pommels are sculpted in the form of a knight’s helmet, the grips wrapped in brass wire, and the long, tapering blades are marked “Klingenthal”, “Colaux & C” renowned Alsatian manufacturer of the period. A rare and highly decorative pair of French fencing rapiers, blending martial heritage and academic elegance from the golden age of European fencing. Condition: Good for age, with fine patina and crisp engravings, one rapier has a broken blade. Length: approx. 104 cm.