Premier Fine Art & Antiques Auction
August 29, 2023
Below is just a small portion of the massive selection of high quality art & antiques to be featured in our upcoming August 29th 2023 auction! This auction will span multiple genres of collectibles, including Fine Paintings & Art, Jewelry & Silver, Orientalia, Rare Glass & Lamps, Early & Victorian Furniture, Decoys, Carvings, Coin-Op, & MORE!
RARE & STRIKING THOMAS, GRISWOLD “FORT” HILT STAFF OFFICER SWORD PRESENTED TO “ CAPT. JNO SAFFARRANS, 2ND TENNESSEE.
02-17386
You won’t find a more stunning presentation of very rare Confederate sword retaining much original gold wash on hilt and scabbard.
Hilt exhibits pierced floral decoration around a central “brick fort”. 29.5” blade maker marked “ “TG&CO / NO” on ricasso though top line weakly struck. 20” etched panels have patriotic themes including: script “CS” in ribbon, Confederate flag, crossed cannon, cotton, and acorns & oak leaves. Scabbard is solid brass unique to Griswold with brass mounts with raised spots on ring bands.
Presentation reads in fancy script “Capt. Jno L. Saffarrans / From his Friends / in honor of his service at / the Battle of Belmont / Memphis Feby. 22nd 1862”
Jonathan L. Saffarans was 55 years old when war began and entered service as captain Company I, 2nd Tennessee Infantry, later Provost Marshall of Memphis appointed by General Beauregard, a post he remained till surrender of Memphis June 6, 1862.
PROVENANCE:
John Hammer collection
Don Tharpe Collection, 1985
Bill Ivey collection, 2000
