The value of Corsican weapons, styli, knives and pistols

The Corsican stylus or the appearance of a purely identity-based weapon

The stylet is a Corsican dagger-like knife that can reach 40 cm in length. Composed of a double-edged blade and a wooden, brass, horn or coral handle, it is usually accompanied by an inscription.

The stylet was originally an awl used for writing, engraving or piercing leather. Derived from the Genoese knife, the stylet first appeared in Corsica in the 16th century. It became a weapon, as well as a tool, when the carrying and transport of weapons were prohibited. The weapon became official during the wars against Italy, Genoa and France in the 18th century. The stylet was unisex, worn by men and women on their belts, but also by the clergy, and became an object of pomp as it became increasingly refined. In the 19th century, particular attention was paid to the style and beauty of the object. This attention is reflected in the richness of the materials used in the pommel, composed of a faceted ebony handle enriched with chased mother-of-pearl blades, rudented metal fillets, brass friezes, bone and horn inlays. A composition often found at auction.

The Corsican stylus: birth of a culture of armament

Corsica was a Genoese colony in the 18th century and the scene of numerous internal conflicts. The maquis was populated by convicts, and natives and shepherds were driven off their land. This climate prompted the Corsicans to demand the right to bear arms for self-defense. Genoa saw this as an opportunity to raise a tax. The corrupt legal system of the Genoese republic led to the birth of the vendetta, justice by oneself for oneself. Civil war broke out in 1729 and lasted around four years. The Corsicans were in revolt, eager to regain a measure of freedom, security and justice. The stylus embodied this desire. It's a new kind of weapon found at auction.

Rating and value of a Corsican stylus at auction

The price of Corsican styli can vary considerably depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the design, the materials used and the reputation of the craftsman. In general, quality Corsican styli can be purchased for as little as 50 euros, and can reach several hundred euros or more for the most refined and sought-after models. Styli made from precious woods, such as hundred-year-old olive wood, can command a higher price due to their rarity and intrinsic value. Please note that these prices are approximate and may vary from designer to designer.

The Corsican vendetta engraved on the styli

Typical of Corsica, a "warlike" state, the vendetta is the culture of revenge. When a murder is committed, the family of the deceased makes up for the affront with a similar or even identical act. The stylus embodies this tradition and the blade is adorned with a motto calling for revenge, " vendetta ", "Che La Mia Ferita - Sia Mortale" ("Let my wound be deadly"), "Morte al nemico" ("Death to the enemy"). These mottos can be found on many styli sold at auction. The possession of a knife for an islander acts the passage from childhood to adulthood. The stylus symbolizes the freedom of the armed man, and the beauty of the object the temperament and the place of its owner. It is part of the heritage and can be transmitted within the family.

The support of an auctioneer in the appraisal and sale of works of art is necessary to guarantee the seller and buyer a quality service at auction. The interest is material: it is important to appraise the object and establish whether it is rare or not, in terms of materials, distinctive elements, provenance and date. Beyond this aspect, it's the promotion of a cultural heritage.