Fletcher, Thomas (1787 - 1866) Philadelphia based silversmith. A rare scale ink and gray wash drawing of a naval officer's sword, 18 x 23 in. detailing the design of both the sword and scabbard, each in two sections. At the bottom left, Fletcher adds a Manuscript Note Signed: "Post Capt. Swords. the Eagles Anchor and stars, to be silvered, all the others to be gilt. The Blade to be of highly polished steel ornamented on it to be etched…" Fletcher then lists the specific dimensions of the sword, including the size of the handle shield, blade, and scabbard and signs, "Thos. Fletcher Phila. 1837" Beautifully decorated incorporating eagles, shells, anchors, and Neptune in the design.
EXTREMELY RARE. While swords from this period are scarce, design sketches rarely appear on the market. The only other example of a sword design by Fletcher we have been able to source is part of the collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Matted and framed to an overall size of 29 x 33½"; frame with several nicks.
Fletcher was born in New Hampshire. In his early twenties, he established himself as a silversmith in Boston. Around 1811, Fletcher, with his partners Charles Fletcher and Baldwin Gardiner moved their business to Philadelphia, where they quickly established themselves as among the preeminent silversmiths there, producing a large quantity of trophies commemorating American victories in the War of 1812. Fletcher's commissions included a silver urn presented to Capt. Isaac Hull for his 1812 victory over HMS Guerrière. The firm also produced swords and sold imported European goods. During an 1826 trip to Mexico to secure orders from the Mexican government, Baldwin Gardiner died. Soon afterwards, despite demand for Fletcher's silver, the firm struggled financially. This sketch, designed as a mass-production sword, perhaps represented Fletcher's last attempt to secure a lucrative contract to rescue his business. From what we can ascertain, the Navy did not take up the design and by 1842, Fletcher's manufacturing operation was in the hands of a receiver and auctioned. He remained in Philadelphia until 1850 when financial constraints forced him to sell his boarding house and move to Delanco, N.J., where he died. Matted and framed. Light uneven toning, minor losses at corners neatly restored, else near fine condition.
Estimated Value $5,000 - 8,000.
U.S. War of 1812
